Dental FAQ Lake Charles, Louisiana

The American Dental Association® recommends (and we agree) that you should brush your teeth at least twice a day, morning and night. Wait at least 30 minutes after eating acidic food before brushing your teeth, as acids soften the dental enamel and a toothbrush can wear it away.

Let your toothbrush dry between uses so that it does not become a breeding ground for germs. Rinse it under tap water and store it upright where it will not touch other toothbrushes.

Your toothbrush should be tossed in the trash after three months or after you have been sick with the cold or flu.

Studies have shown a link between periodontal disease and conditions such as heart disease. It is possible the infection from the gum tissue enters the bloodstream. Heart disease has been known to produce oral symptoms, such as pain and inflammation in the gums. If you are at risk of heart disease or have noticed a change in your gum health, come see us.

Periodontal disease is the result of prolonged exposure to bacteria below the gum line. It often develops as a result of poor oral hygiene or a preexisting medical condition.

Gingivitis is the early stage of periodontal disease, characterized by red, inflamed or bleeding gums. It can often be treated with a deep cleaning procedure to remove plaque from the teeth. If left untreated, gingivitis progresses to periodontitis, an aggressive form of periodontal disease that causes gum recession, bone loss and tooth loss.

A dentist is trained to detect oral conditions that you may not notice, such as tooth decay, periodontal disease and oral cancer. Routine visits allow symptoms to be caught early and treated before more extensive problems occur. Please visit Oak Park Dental Family Dentistry at least every six months or as directed by our dentists.

Foul or stale breath can be a result of many factors, including:

• Poor oral hygiene
• A reduction in saliva during sleep (also known as “morning breath”)
• Pungent food
• Dry mouth
• Some medications
• Smoking & tobacco use
• Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes and kidney disease

If you have persistent bad breath, come see our dentists at Oak Park Dental Family Dentistry for a diagnosis and treatment plan.