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Common Conditions

Oral health is a vast subject and we are available to you as a resource for any or all questions you may have before, during or after your visit with us.

Gum Disease

Gum disease is an infection of the tissues around your teeth and a major cause of tooth loss in adults. It is mostly painless and caused by plaque buildup — many people are unaware that they have it, which is why regular checkups are crucial to long-term dental health. Some common signs of gum disease are:
  • Bad breath
  • Gum recession
  • Bleeding and sore gums with periodontal pockets

Many factors contribute to gum disease, the most common being:
  • Your overall health; diabetes and other autoimmune disorders can play a role
  • Medications
  • Nutrition
  • Genetics
  • Tobacco

Research shows a link between active gum disease and other chronic health problems, such as heart disease, stroke, and low birth weight for expecting mothers. The early stage of gum disease is called gingivitis, which causes red, swollen and bleeding gums. Gum disease is reversible at the gingivitis stage by a dentist visit and regular at-home dental care. Advanced gum disease is called periodontitis and affects 47.2% of adults. It can lead to the loss of tissue and bone and your teeth will feel loose and start moving around in your mouth.
The benefits of treating gum disease are numerous:
  • Teeth and gums feel better
  • Gums no longer bleed
  • Your breath will smell better
  • Has a positive effect on overall health by eliminating chronic infection and inflammation. Current research shows a link between active gum disease and heart disease, stroke, and low birth weight for expecting mothers.
Regular at home oral care and annual dentist checkups place a huge role in preventing this disease. Talk to Dr. Spiger if you suspect you have gum disease — the sooner you treat it, the better.

Cracked Teeth & Tooth Wear

The five most common conditions we see in our office are tooth decay, tooth wear, cracked teeth, replacing old or worn out dentistry and gum disease. Some of the cause of these issues are:
  • Excessive teeth clenching or grinding
  • Age of teeth (93% of people with tooth wear are 65 and older)
  • Consumption of carbonated drinks
  • Eating disorders
Benefits to treating tooth wear are:
  • Reductions in pain and soreness
  • They protect the teeth, preventing broken fillings and cracked teeth
A few ways to combat excessive tooth wear is to limit consumption of acidic and sugary drinks and purchase a mouth guard if you grind your teeth in your sleep. Refer to our Preventative care section for more information how to maintain healthy teeth, and for care instructions for your new mouthguard, read our Care guide.
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