| Dr. Alice Estrella-Gemba is a dentist and has answered some of the common questions Bizymoms visitors have about Dental Care.
Q. What is the proper way to care for one’s teeth?
A. Brushing after meals, flossing daily and regular check -ups are foundational. I agree with the ADA recommendation to have a first dental visit at one year old considering all factors relevant to the matter. With regard to older adults even insurance companies have finally become proactive and now offer thrice a year ‘cleanings’. What I find fascinating is that patients who will immediately take care of a bleeding finger for example, will ignore bleeding gums! That is a red flag warning and reason for fast action to prevent further breakdown. Bleeding is one of the 5 pathognomonic signs of inflammation; other 4 signs include swelling, redness, pain and the ensuing loss of function (functiolesa).
Q. What is the most common cause of tooth loss?
A. Periodontitis, commonly known as "gum –disease," or Pyorrhea: The periodontium or supporting structure of teeth includes the gums or gingiva, the alveolar bone and the periodontal ligament, which connects the tooth to the bone. The disease process remain the same and if understood and addressed can significantly lessen the occurrence of symptoms; (1) strengthening the resistance of the host, (2) lowering of the number of germs involved, (3) lowering the virulence of the germs and taking care that there is no portal of entry for the germs. In the case of gum disease, heredity plays a role and the present inability to pin-point the active phases of the disease is one of the challenging factors we face in the fight against periodontitis. Proactive care is the best especially for susceptible individuals.
Q. What are the major causes for bad breath?
A. Local factors involved- tartar, tooth decay, plaque are all related to germs. Diet and systemic conditions and medications could contribute.
Q. How can a person tell if he/she has gingivitis or periodontitis (gum disease)?
A. The presence of tartar, together with the measurements elicited upon probing and measuring the space between the bone and teeth called Periodontal Charting and X-rays showing bone loss together with teeth mobility, help in determining whether an inflammatory condition of the gums, which is Gingitivitis has proceeded to an infective process called Periodontitis. Periodontitis is the infection of the Periodontium, which consists of the gum, bone and periodontal ligament.
Q. How can cosmetic dentistry help improve appearance of a person’s smile?
A. The confidence a person gains in aligning, leveling, reshaping teeth and recontouring facial structures is unbelievably life changing. I am posting some of my patients’ stories and photos on line, so all visitors can enjoy it twice…
Q. How to contact Dr. Gemba if we have further questions?
A.
1673 W Broadway Ste #4
Anaheim, CA 92802
Phone : (714) 772-6540
E-mail : dralicegemba@mynicedentist.com
Website : www.mynicedentist.com |
