Dental
Dr. Patrick Guidry, DDS
24021 Railroad Ave
Plaquemine, LA 70764
225-687-4892
Dr. Patrick Guidry, DDS
Q: What is Halitosis?
A: Halitosis is also referred to as bad breath. Some people are not aware there is a problem. It is sometimes caused by the food we eat and the use of tobacco products. Other causes are dry mouth (xerostomia), which occurs when the flow of saliva decreases. Chronic sinusitis, bronchitis, kidney ailment, gastrointestinal upset, or a respiratory infection are some medical conditions that may also contribute to bad breath. Your dentist will be able to assist you in determining if it is an oral problem or possibly a medical condition. However maintaining good oral health is essential to reducing bad breath.
Q: Why do my teeth seem darker?
A: As you grow older one of the changes you may notice is that is is harder to keep your teeth clean and white. The colorless, sticky layer of bacteria, called plaque, which builds up faster and in greater amounts as we age, causes this. Your teeth appear slightly darker because of the changes in dentin, the bone-like tissue that is under your enamel.
Q: Why is my mouth sometimes dry?
A: Dry mouth in older adults is a common problem because of reduced saliva flow. Medications such as painkillers, antihistamines, decongestants, and diuretics often have this side effect. Dry mouth can also be associated with difficulty swallowing, dry nasal passages, sore throat, problems speaking, and hoarseness. Adequate saliva is needed to neutralize acids produced by plaque, and wash away food. Without proper lubrication cavities can form. There are certain things your dentist can recommend to replace moisture. Sugar free candy or gum will stimulate saliva flow. There are also artificial saliva and oral rinses that help.
Q: I'm an older adult now, I didn't think I got cavities anymore. And can you get cavities under a crown?
A: Tooth decay can affect anyone regardless of age. The causes for tooth decay are the same for everyone. Bacteria in plaque feed on sugar and starch that produce acids. These acids leach out the minerals (calcium) leaving a soft spot in the tooth. Older adults actually can be more susceptible to decay because they grew up without the benefit of fluoride. Also many adults take medications which can cause dry mouth. Without adequate salivary flow teeth are less resistant and decay more quickly.
Yes crowns do reduce the area in which decay can occur but the teeth under crowns can still get cavities.
Q: Since the major cause of tooth loss in adults is periodontal disease, is there anything I can do to help prevent it?
A: Periodontal disease is a condition that progresses slowly over time making it common for older adults. This condition can even happen without pain. If gone undetected and or uncontrolled it causes damage to your gums and the tissue around it, and sometimes it can cause bone loss. Mainly caused by plaque, other factors such as food left between the teeth, smoking, poor diet, and diseases such as anemia can increase the risk or severity of the disease. Periodontal disease can be controlled or arrested. If caught in the early stages it can even be reversed. Some of the warning signs are: bleeding gums when you brush your teeth; swollen, red or tender gums; mobile teeth, gums that have pulled away from your teeth, bad taste or bad breath.