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What Bacteria Are Living in Your Mouth?
More than 700 different strains of bacteria have been found colonizing in the human mouth. As a patient gets older, his or her mouth changes, in turn affecting the amount of microorganism colonies living in the oral cavity at one time.
Some bacteria are worse than others, but scientists have identified a few specific diseases that have developed through these specific bacteria living in the mouth. The top two bacteria found in patients’ mouths are Streptococcus Mutans and Porphyromonas Gingivalis (try to say those ten times fast!). These can each lead to Periodontitis and other gum diseases, tooth decay, tooth loss, and even root canals.
Streptococcus Mutans is a bacteria that lives in the mouth and feeds on the sugars and starches the individual has eaten throughout the day. These bacteria are the main cause of tooth decay in humans today.
Porphyromonas Gingivalis is an oral bacterial disease that can lead to the development of the gum disease, Periodontitis.
Periodontitis is a common infection developed by bacteria in the mouth and infects supporting structures of the teeth. It can lead to tooth decay and tooth loss if not properly taken care of.
Once an oral bacterial infection is developed, it is very unlikely that the individual will be able to rid themselves of it. Rather, preventative care assures that these diseases will not get out of hand.
Managing Bacteria
The best way to manage a bacterial infection is to eat a well-balanced diet and brushing and flossing daily. If the bacteria get worse, an oral, antibacterial mouthwash cleans out the bacteria to the extent of which it is capable.
The health of the back teeth of the mouth is often reflected in the front teeth. Consistent brushing and flossing will help build a healthy mouth from the ground up, so you can smile confidently.
For more information on oral bacterial infections, treatment plans, or preventative options, visit with your dentist or oral surgeon today.
Dental Bonding
Fixing a chipped tooth, cracked tooth or a gap in your teeth is fast, easy and affordable with dental bonding. Dental bonding can also be used to improve the appearance of slightly discolored teeth and to change the shape of teeth, but it is typically recommended only for small cosmetic changes. Unlike other cosmetic treatments, dental bonding can be performed with little to no advance preparation. Dental bonding is also convenient and durable, taking just 30-60 minutes per tooth and lasting from 3-10 years.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are an extraordinary blend of science and art. Made of titanium, dental implants are securely anchored into the jaw and serve as roots for dental crowns. In many cases, dental implants – and mini dental implants, the smaller version -- are considered the best option for replacing missing teeth. They are also used to replace dental bridges or partial dentures, or to provide support for dentures. Dental implants offer several advantages over other tooth replacement options. They look, feel and function just like real teeth! With dental implants, surrounding teeth are left untouched. Finally, dental implants are exceptionally reliable. Year after year, dental implants have had high success rates and typically last 15-20 years.
Single Tooth Implants
If you're missing a tooth and want the very best dentistry has to offer, you could be the perfect candidate for single-tooth implants. Single-tooth implants act as tooth roots for replacement teeth. They are securely anchored into the jaw and topped with a dental crown for the very best in look, feel and function. Single-tooth implants offer several advantages over other tooth replacement options, such as dental bridges and partial dentures. Surrounding teeth and the jawbone are better preserved. Single-tooth implants are also easier to clean. And they can also outlast bridges and dentures by about 10 years!