Month: September 2016

As we get older, we tend to experience more health concerns than we did when we were younger. Our dental health is no different. At my Holland dental office, we want all of our patients to be aware of some of the most common oral health issues that tend to affect those 50 or older.

Gum Disease

Like many oral health problems, gum disease can affect overall health. Research has shown a positive correlation between gum disease and heart disease, diabetes, as well as some cancers. In those over age 50, 30% are affected by gum disease.

Decay

Many times we think of cavities and decay as something that affects the younger population when, in fact, anywhere up to 60% of those over 50 have recently had a cavity. Decay can be caused by a variety of things including inadequate dental hygiene, softening of teeth as we age, or even dry mouth.

Dry Mouth

We already know that dry mouth can lead to decay, but why? When the mouth is dry it means there’s not enough saliva production to rinse away bacteria. Saliva also helps keep teeth from softening thanks to its levels of calcium and phosphate. Dry mouth tends to affect the older population more so because of the increased use of medication. Many medicines’ side effects include dry mouth, so it’s important to tell your dentist everything you take.

Oral Cancer

The name itself describes how serious this particular concern is, but even more so for those over 50. In fact, the likelihood of developing oral cancer greatly increases in those 50 and older. While 45,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer every year, and 8,000 actually die from it, the chance of survival greatly increases if caught early.

All of these common oral health concerns can eventually lead to tooth loss or more serious issues if not treated. To help avoid them, see your Holland dentist at least twice a year for regular dental check ups and cleanings.

If you’re concerned about any dental issues at any age, we encourage you to call my Holland dental office to schedule an appointment. We’ll discuss your concerns and determine the best treatment options to help you keep your teeth for a long time.

Accepting patients from Holland, Saugatuck, Zeeland, and beyond. 

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease that causes those affected to have an adverse reaction to gluten. When these individuals eat foods containing gluten, their bodies don’t allow proper absorption and damage to the small intestine can occur. Most commonly, symptoms of celiac disease are found in the gastrointestinal tract. However, at my Holland dental office, we want to talk about some lesser known side effects of this disease and how ignoring gluten intolerance can damage your oral health.

How Does Gluten Affect the Oral Health of People with Celiac Disease?

A study by the European Journal of Internal Medicine concluded that 85% of those affected by celiac disease have severe damage to their tooth enamel. How does that happen? When individuals with celiac consume gluten, their immune systems react and actually attack the small intestine. This response also blocks the absorption of Vitamin D — an essential nutrient that helps build strong bones and protects tooth enamel. When the enamel diminishes, the likelihood of cavities and other concerns greatly increases. Gluten ingestion can also lead to:

• Canker sores
• Excessive mucus production
• Tooth discoloration
• Pitted teeth
• Misshapen teeth
• And more

Prevention

Many of the oral health problems discussed can’t be reversed, so it’s important for gluten-sensitive people to avoid eating gluten. And like everyone, it’s important to brush and floss regularly. Additionally, there are times when celiac disease doesn’t show signs in the gastrointestinal tract, but rather in the mouth first. Keeping regularly scheduled appointments with your dentist in Holland can help diagnose a potential problem early.

Does Gluten Have the Same Affect on Those Without Celiac Disease?

It’s important to know that those with a diagnosed gluten intolerance, gluten sensitivity, or celiac disease are the main people affected by these negative oral health complications. The way their immune systems work does not allow gluten to be absorbed normally. If you’re concerned about gluten and are interested in exploring a gluten-free diet, please talk to your physician first.

If your teeth have suffered enamel loss, are discolored, or you’ve been told they may fall out, whether because of celiac disease or not, you do have options. Schedule an appointment at my dental office in Holland to discuss restorative dentistry options or cosmetic dentistry treatments.

Accepting patients from Holland, Saugatuck, Zeeland.