Many people may not know, but the average American consumes about 2 pounds of gum each year. There are many reasons someone might chew a piece of gum, whether habitual, to stay awake during a boring college lecture, or to freshen their breath throughout the day. Whatever the case may be, it is very important to understand how and why chewing gum can affect our dental health. Let’s take a look and see whether or not chewing gum is good or bad for our teeth.

For the most part, chewing gum is good for teeth. It all depends, however, on a series of factors that contribute to whether or not the particular gum you choose to chew is right for your teeth. Chewing gum can even help prevent tooth decay and produce more saliva. One of the most important tips in chewing gum is to choose a sugarless kind. At the same time though, chewing gum can damage your mouth if you decide to chew a stick that contains sugar. Chewing too much gum can also lead to wear and tear of your teeth and adversely affect your jaw.

Pros

Increases saliva flow:Increase saliva flow can help in rinsing out bacteria and food particles after eating. This can cut down on the possibility of tooth decay, and saliva also provides your teeth with nutrients they need to stay strong.

Beneficial to your health:Chewing gum can be honestly beneficial to your health only if chewing gum without any sugar in it.

Hardens enamel:Chewing gum can also work to harden your enamel as gun manufacturers are beginning to add a substance called casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP). This works to remineralize and harden tooth enamel.

Cons

Tooth decay: Sugary gums, as stated in the previous aspects of this article, can be a huge factor in causing tooth decay. Sugar coating between and on the teeth can slowly cause damage to the tooth enamel.

Jaw stress: By making gum chewing habit, you can cause great stress on your jaw by constantly making it overwork. This can lead to TMJ, a chronic and painful jaw disorder.

Stomach issues: The continuous showing of gum can also lead to increased levels of stress to your stomach and intestines. It’s important to allow a resting time for your food to digest after meals.

For more answers to what is good and bad for your dental health, give us at Town Square Dental in Pasadena, TX, a call. We would be more than happy to answer any dental related questions you may have.

Have you noticed that your gums appear to be receding? Suffer from chronic bad breath? You may be suffering from a common dental condition known as “periodontal disease”! In the early stages, periodontal disease is known as gingivitis. However, as it progresses it is known as periodontitis. At Town Square Dental we are proud to offer periodontal treatment in Pasadena, TX for those interested in addressing their gingivitis or periodontitis.

Periodontal Disease Causes

Wondering what might increase your chances of periodontal disease?

• Tobacco Use
• Hormonal Changes
• Certain Diseases
• Certain Medications
• Poor Dental Hygiene
• Genetics

We recommend scheduling routine professional care with your dentist in Pasadena. Routine visits with your dentist can reduce plaque formation, bacterial overgrowth, cavity formation and even periodontal disease.

What is Gingivitis?

Gingivitis is the first and only curable stage of periodontal disease. Typically patients will experience minor symptoms, including:

• Red Gums
• Swollen Gums
• Bleeding Gums
• Infected Gums
• Receding Gums
• Bad Breath
• Pus

Many patients, however, don’t notice symptoms until the disease has progressed, scheduling routine visits with your periodontist in Pasadena, TX can help reduce your risk for developing gingivitis. When caught early, gingivitis can be completely reversed and cured.

What is Periodontitis?

Periodontitis are the more advanced forms of periodontal disease, once the condition has advanced it is no longer curable or reversible. During these stages of periodontal disease, the bone and supporting structures in the mouth become damaged. Patients will typically begin to experience more severe symptom formation such as:

• Gum Pockets
• Loose Teeth
• Shifting Teeth
• Misaligned Teeth
• Missing Teeth

Schedule Your Periodontal Treatment in Pasadena, TX

At Town Square Dental we are proud to offer periodontal cleanings along with scaling & root planing for the treatment of periodontal gum disease. Periodontal treatment aims to reduce bacteria and lessen symptoms. Contact us today to schedule your periodontal therapy in Pasadena, TX. We are always accepting new patients and would be happy to help manage your condition.

There are many different ways to improve the health and appearance of your smile. Our Town Square Dental office provides fluoride treatments that help to protect smiles. Continue reading to learn more about this treatment and see how it can improve your oral health.

What is a fluoride treatment?

Fluoride is a natural mineral that is found in many foods and water. It works to fight against tooth decay and and protects the enamel of teeth. A higher dosage of fluoride is found in treatments at dental offices and are an essential way to improve smiles.

Different Types of Fluoride Treatments

Different fluoride treatments include topical and oral treatments. Topical treatments are provided in the form of gels, sprays, foams, or varnishes. Oral treatments are provided in the form of supplements in liquids, capsules, and tablets.

Fluoride treatments help individuals of all ages. They are beneficial for children as they assist in strengthening the development of teeth. It also helps to prevent demineralization as the teeth develop and fights against tooth decay. Fluoride treatments are also helpful for adults as they prevent tooth decay and demineralization of the teeth.

When Do You Need Fluoride Treatments?

Fluoride treatments are perfect for anyone looking to strengthen their teeth against tooth decay. Many individuals are at a higher risk of tooth decay including those affected by the following dental issues:

• Dry Mouth. Fluoride treatments are recommended due to the absence of saliva increases. This increases the risk of demineralization and tooth decay.
• Gum Recession. Gum recession shows more of the individual tooth which puts them at an increased risk of other oral health issues.
• Frequent Cavities. Fluoride treatments are an extra step in avoiding cavities. If you are affected by frequent cavities, then talk to your dentist about fluoride treatments!