Dry Mouth

“Xerostomia or dry mouth is a condition that affects many, especially those who are on certain medications or who breath through the mouth,” explains Dr. Denine Rice of Rice Periodontics and Implant Surgery in Riverside, California.

Saliva is a necessity as it helps the mouth stay clean while digesting food. Without saliva the bacteria found in the food deposits is not washed away, but instead clings to the tooth. The bacteria are what causes decay and disease.

Xerostomia is generally the challenge when you notice any of the following conditions:

a.     A dry or sticky feeling of your oral tissues.

b.     Feeling thirsty

c.      A dry or red tongue

d.     A sore throat that feels dry

e.     Difficulty speaking, tasting, or swallowing

f.      Cracked lips

The good news is that there is help for those with dry mouths.  “There are many products on the market that can assist with producing more saliva. Also you can find gum and candies that contain xylitol,” adds Dr. Rice. Xylitol is a natural sweetener that prevents decay.  Remember as we head into the summer season to drink plenty of water.

If you feel you may be one of those who suffers from xerostomia the best course of action may be to see your dentist. They can make additional specific recommendations that will help you keep your smile bright and healthy.

Young Patients with Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is the term given to the infection in the tissue surrounding the teeth. While the vast majority of adults have some form – it is generally estimated that more than 90% of adults have periodontal disease – it is generally seen in patients more frequently when they are 30 years old or older.  That being said, young people can also be affected by certain rare forms of the disease.

“In general bone loss in young people is uncommon, but the risk seems to increase between the ages of 12 and 17,” says Dr. Denine Rice from her Riverside, California Periodontal and Implant surgery center. “Too often we see young people with signs of disease and early bone loss. This is why the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry has recommended that young people beginning at age 12 should have regular periodontal evaluations to determine if there are any early signs of bone loss.”

Aggressive periodontal disease in young people means that bone loss occurs that much earlier and can result in tooth loss also at an earlier age.

“Most often the loss of attachment is seen in the molar areas first,” Dr. Rice adds.  “This means that as a parent, you should be asking your pediatric dentist or general dentist to evaluate your child for signs of the disease and certainly they should be evaluated before any orthodontic treatment begins.”

To help keep your child’s mouth healthy and happy, remember regular visits to the dentist are a must.

Why Do Gums Recede?

Why do gums recede is a question often asked at the Periodontal office of Dr. Denine Rice. 

Gum recession refers to the process where the edge of the tissue pulls or wears away exposing more of the tooth or the tooth's root. This process can be caused by gum disease, aggressive tooth brushing, grinding and clenching of the teeth, hereditary factors, crooked teeth, hormonal changes and habits, such as tobacco use. 

WebMD states,  it's not in your best interest to ignore gum recession. Especially since there are treatments that can both prevent more damage and repair existing recession. 

"When bacteria builds up below the gum line in the pockets around the teeth it can damage both the bone that supports the teeth and the tissue surrounding them. That's why its so important to have periodontal disease treated," says Dr. Rice from her Riverside, California dental practice. But a visit to your dentist could also provide you with the knowledge that your recession is due to clenching and grinding. "Many times a simple appliance that is worn at night can control this," adds Dr. Rice. "And your dentist can also make recommendations for the appropriate tooth brush and technique to help if the problem is because of aggressive brushing."

If you are seeing signs of recession, don't wait. Call your dentist today.