Dentists in Hamden aren’t just for cleaning your teeth. Our dental staff knows how to diagnose and treat a variety of diseases. Some of these are:
Leukoplakia
Leukoplakia is a condition that can cause patches on the tongue, inside the cheek and in the mouth. It affects the mucous membranes and can be caused by dentures, tobacco, or alcohol. Oral hairy leukoplakia is a condition that can be indicative of Epstein-Barr syndrome, especially in people with HIV or AIDS, or other immune system disorders. Regular checkups are important to keep track of any lesions. Discontinuing use of tobacco and alcohol can often be effective, but in some cases it may be necessary to remove the patches.
Diagnosing and Treating Halitosis
Halitosis, or bad breath, doesn’t just cause problems socially. It is usually associated with poor hygiene and oral diseases and may be a sign of other types of pathologies. It is usually due to plaque on the tongue but can be related to other causes such as poor dental hygiene or tobacco. It can come on suddenly, and in many cases you may not notice it, but others around you may. The key to treating Halitosis is to determine the cause. As with leukoplakia, some cases may be fixed by stopping drinking, eating certain foods which produce acid reflux, or quitting the use of tobacco. Some cases may require a special mouth rinse but other cases may be indicative of extraoral halitosis which is caused by disorders of the digestive tract, the liver or the kidneys.
Diagnosing Cavities in Hamden
Cavities are perforations or structural changes that occur in the teeth. They can affect people of any age and are one of the main causes of tooth loss. Tartar damages the tooth enamel. In general, decay does not hurt unless it becomes too large and ends up affecting the tooth nerve or causing a tooth fracture. It is important to treat cavities when they appear to prevent tooth abscess and tooth extraction. Removal of the affected area of the tooth is the first step. Fillings, crowns, root canals, or extractions may be necessary.
Bruxism Treatments and Diagnosis
Bruxism is tightening the teeth or making them grind unconsciously. It usually occurs at night and can lead to problems with the articulation of the jaw and wear on the teeth. Earache, headache, or jaw pain may also occur and can be related to stress and anxiety. Relaxation techniques can often stop bruxism but in some cases, the use of guards to prevent the grinding of teeth may be necessary.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is caused by plaque buildup between the teeth causing inflammation of the gums. The bacteria emits toxins, causing inflammation and increased sensitivity. Bleeding and ulcers may appear.Poor dental hygiene is often the cause but other factors such as pregnancy, diabetes that is not being controlled, the use of some medications, misaligned teeth or poorly placed dentures, may also lead to the condition. Regular, professional cleaning, proper fitting of crowns, dentures, and bridges, and a good oral hygiene plan, will usually reverse the effects.
Treatments and Diagnosis for Periodontitis
Periodontitis is inflammation and infection of the bones and ligaments that hold the teeth. When gingivitis isn’t properly treated inflammation goes beyond the gums can affect support of the teeth. Plaque and tartar form pockets between the tooth and the gum and if not treated it can result in “trench mouth,” where painful ulcers appear on the gums. This increase in bacteria can also lead to the appearance of viruses. Scaling and planing the teeth can remove the tartar and antibiotics may be prescribed. In serious cases, oral surgery, and or tissue/bone grafts may be necessary.
Oral Cancer Diagnosis and Treatments
Oral Cancer usually appears on the lips and tongue but can also occur in other parts of the mouth such as the inside of the cheeks, gums, the floor of the mouth or palate. It spreads rapidly and is usually caused by tobacco and alcohol but can also be caused by chronic rubbing with prostheses, human papillomavirus, immunosuppressive drugs and poor dental hygiene. Early diagnosis is key to treatment.
Many diseases can be linked to problems that start in your mouth. Our dentists are the extra eyes you need to get treatment early and effectively. Make your regular appointments with us here in Hamden. Contact us at (203) 248-0011 today, and we’ll keep an eye out for you.