There are three disease processes that are treated in dentistry:

1) Decay (cavities) - a bacterial infection of the hard tooth structure. This is the major cause of tooth loss in children and the major cause of root canal infections in adults.

2) Periodontal (gum) disease - a bacterial infection of the soft tissues surrounding the tooth and the supporting bone (the tooth socket). This is the major cause of bad breath, bleeding gums and tooth loss in adults.

3) Traumatic occlusion (a bad bite) - a human bite exerts 200 pounds per square inch of pressure. A tooth that is not properly positioned within the dental arch absorbs more of that biting pressure than it should. This can greatly accelerate the rate of progression of periodontal disease.

Proper diagnosis is the only way to identify these disease processes early and treat them preventively . The diagnostic skills of a dentist are very important to your short and long term health and appearance; unfortunately these skills vary greatly. In our office you will always be examined when you come in for a cleaning. We take the time to be thorough and have the ability to see problems early. Your concerns about sensitivity, pain, bleeding gums, bad breath, or your appearance are helpful to us.

It is critical that patients understand, however, that the absence of pain does not indicate the absence of disease .
The condition and appearance of your teeth subconsciously control your smile. Everyone coming to our office is an individual with a specific set of dental, emotional, intellectual and financial needs.

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