The importance of top quality preventive dentistry for your Laguna Niguel family

It is often said that prevention is the best cure, and that is especially true of oral health. Most common oral diseases can be prevented entirely, or corrected easily in the early stages. However, dental problems are progressive. Without prompt treatment, a minor problem can turn into a serious one, and often lead to additional oral health concerns.

How common dental problems progress:

• Cavities – Tooth decay begins with eroded enamel. At first, you won't even be able to see the tiny spot. As it spreads, it becomes a visible pit (cavity) in the tooth enamel. Once it chews through the enamel layer, softer underlying dentin is exposed. Decay can travel more quickly in this layer, and the tooth can become sensitive to hot or cold temperatures. If the cavity is allowed to continue growing, it will reach the soft inner layer known as pulp, and the nerves will be exposed.
  
  
• Gum disease – In the earliest stages, gum disease is an infection very near to the surface, which can typically be remedied with deep cleaning. As it progresses, the gums become increasingly inflamed, and tartar accumulates on the surface of tooth roots. As a result, the gums pull away from the teeth, creating pockets where larger amounts of tartar and bacteria can accumulate. Without treatment, the infection can attack the periodontal ligaments and bone causing eventual tooth loss.
  
  
• Missing teeth – Oral disease is the most common cause of tooth loss, but even the healthiest person can lose a tooth to oral injury. Whatever the circumstances, a missing tooth is a more serious problem than you may realize. The most noticeable immediate effects are difficulty speaking, difficulty chewing, and an unattractive gap in your smile. What you may not notice is the bone gradually eroding in that area, nearby teeth shifting towards the gap, and similar subtle, but destructive effects.

We understand that fear or anxiety is one of the most common reasons that people delay seeking dental care. Therefore, we use advanced comfort technology along with gentle techniques, so you can relax. Call us at 949-427-2096 and schedule an appointment today. Our office is conveniently located in Mission Viejo, just a short drive from Laguna Niguel.