In 2001, Dr. Birdwell was chosen Texas Dentist of the Year for his exceptional dentistry and for contributions to his profession and community. For you, the patient, this means you couldn’t be in more competent hands. If you’re looking for exceptional dental care in the Bryan - College Station area, we invite you to visit our office. Call our Bryan, TX dental office today and make an appointment for a thorough exam and cosmetic evaluation.
Tooth Decay and Gum Disease
We Fight Disease on Two Fronts
You probably don't think of your mouth as a war zone. But we do. In fact, whether you realize it or not, your mouth is constantly under attack from two serious enemies: tooth decay and gum disease. The key culprits behind these conditions are naturally occurring oral bacteria, and the acids they produce. And unchecked tooth decay can also lead to gum disease, which even conservative estimates say is present in at least 80% of the population. Gum disease, in turn, is responsible for up to 70% of adult tooth loss.
Bad Bacteria, Aggressive Acids, Aging and Aggravation
Here’s why tooth decay is so sneaky and successful. Your mouth’s constant supply of normal bacteria produces a sticky "plaque" substance that they deposit on your teeth. Foods and beverages like cokes, fruit juices, hard candy, kool aid or any other sugary substances combine with the bacteria to form a strong acid….which then erodes your enamel, breaks down gum-tooth connecting fibers, and in turn allows further bacteria and toxins to invade unprotected tissues. Eventually, your affected tooth, tooth root, and supporting bone may all be damaged or entirely destroyed! Furthermore, unremoved plaque paves the way for another gum irritant called calculus or tartar—which only professional instruments can remove. Other factors come into play as well. Aging adults may be more at risk due to dry mouth, old fractured and leaky fillings that allow bacteria to invade, and plaque build-up in hard-to-reach places. Poor lifestyle choices, poor nutrition, systemic diseases such as diabetes, chewing or smoking tobacco----all can diminish your body’s ability to fight infection.
Take the Offensive
So, if this whole situation sounds pretty dreary to you, remember that it doesn’t have to be that way. The most successful plan of attack involves education and prevention: Brush, floss and visit the dentist regularly so that we can help you prevent and control your dental disease. We can identify even the earliest warning signs: red, swollen or tender gums, bleeding while brushing or flossing, gums that pull away from teeth, loose or separating teeth, pus between the gum and tooth, persistent bad breath, or a change in your bite. And we can treat the disease successfully, making your ongoing hygiene efforts that much more successful.
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