2021 has finally arrived! The start of a new year is always very promising and it is the best time to make a list of things that need to be accomplished during the year, the famous “New Year’s Resolutions”.
The most common items in the “New Year’s Resolution List” are related to health and lifestyle change, such as start a new diet, exercise more and eat better.
Oral health is part of overall health, and that visit to the dentist that has been postponed should be added to the list!
It is important to see a dentist, at least once a year for a dental exam and radiographs to make sure there is no cavities, gum disease and other issues that can lead to a more complicated and costly treatment.
Oral cancer screening should also be part of your “dental check-up”. It is more dangerous that you think.
The Canadian Cancer Association estimated that 5,400 Canadians will be diagnosed with oral cancer and 1,500 Canadians will die from oral cancer during the year of 2020.
Prevention is key in oral health!
Dental hygienists also play a very important role in dentistry. They can identify gum issues and even cavities and call the dentist to do an exam and a proper diagnose. The frequency that you see your hygienist is always based on your gum condition, and it can be every 3, 4, or 6 months.
Gum disease, also called, periodontal disease, is the result of inflammation of the gums and bone that support the teeth. In its early stage, called gingivitis, the gums can become swollen and red, and they may bleed. In its more advanced stage, called periodontitis, the gums can pull away from the tooth, bone can be lost, and the tooth may loosen and eventually fall out.
Recent studies suggest that 47% of adults aged 30 years and older have some form of gum disease. Another fact is that periodontal disease increases with age, and 70% of adults 65 years and older have periodontal disease.
The good news are that in most cases, gingivitis can be controlled and treated with excellent oral hygiene at home and regular professional cleaning. More severe forms of periodontal disease can also be treated successfully but it requires a more extensive treatment. Such treatment, commonly called “Soft Tissue Management” includes deep cleaning of the tooth root surfaces below the gums, usually with local anesthetic, medications placed directly under the gums, and more frequent visits to the dental office.
At Iris Dentistry in Waterloo you can find a wide range of dental services for the whole family, for all ages! From the first visit to the dentist to braces, restorations, dental implants, dentures and much more!
Call Iris Dentistry at (519)886-8980 or click here to request an appointment. We are ready and happy to serve our community in Waterloo and surrounding areas.