Why is Water Important to Your Teeth?

Tooth decay is one of the most common conditions experienced by Americans and children in particular. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that more than 19% of children have untreated decay and 41% have decayed primary, or baby teeth. Why are these statistics so bad? Mainly because decay is an easily treated disease. After children, the most frequently seen patient with decay is the older adult.

“As we age we frequently are prescribed medications and a large percentage of the medications we take have a side effect of dry mouth, which contributes to tooth decay,” says Dr. Judith Ko, your Hemet Top Dentist according to the Inland Empire Magazine.

The CDC considers the fluoridation of water in the 1950-1960’s as one of greatest achievements in public health and those with access to fluoridated water and toothpaste reaped the benefits of reduced decay. These trends have reversed as more and more people are drinking bottled water.

Water is critically important for the body. It hydrates and detoxifies us. And saliva, which is 98% water adds in the reduction of bacteria growth in the mouth. So what does all this mean? “Drink more water, not juice, or acidic beverages, like soda,” says Dr. Ko from her Cosmetic dental practice. “It’s best for your mouth and teeth.”

The Crown: A Great Restorative Procedure!

Is a crown the right choice for you? Why can’t a filling do the job?

“A crown is the correct option when the majority of the tooth structure has been damaged due to decay or through injury,” says Dr.Judith Ko from her Hemet California Dental Practice.

Your dentist will generally recommend a filling when the tooth decay is minimal – which is why dentists are always talking about coming in for regular visits – but when decay has been left untreated for a period of time, the only choice is for a full protective covering.

In addition, when nerve damage has compromised a tooth, and endodontic treatment has occurred, the tooth will become brittle and be more susceptible to breakage. With this in mind, your dentist will generally recommend a crown, especially when the tooth affected is a back tooth that is used for grinding and chewing food.

Sometimes the tooth has no symptoms – is not causing any discomfort – but your dentist can see lines showing that the tooth is fracturing. In this case your dentist may recommend a crown to prevent pain in the future or a broken or fractured tooth that cannot be saved due to the breakage occurring so close or even below the gum tissue. 

As with any procedure recommended, ask questions.  Your dentist will be happy to share the reasons for the recommendation and explain the process thoroughly with you.