DENTAL PROBLEMS
The health of your mouth affects the health of your whole body. When you have a dental problem, it is best to have Dr. Clay give you a thorough examination and then an explanation of all the options offered by modern dentistry. The good news is that you are taking the first step to get your mouth and your body back into good health. And you are not alone! Many people have experienced the same problems, and improved their condition with the help and care of Dr. Clay.
Abscessed Tooth
An abscess is a painful condition caused by infection in a badly damaged or decayed tooth.
Bad Breath (Halitosis)
Halitosis, or “bad breath” is a common, but embarrassing condition that often has a dental cause.
Cavities and Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is the process of a tooth’s mineral content being dissolved. A cavity, or caries, is the actual hole in a tooth that is caused by tooth decay.
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth is caused by an inadequate supply of saliva. This is usually due to medication side effects, but may have other causes.
Gum Disease (Gingivitis)
Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums that is usually caused by plaque. It is the earliest and most easily treated form of gum disease, as it only affects the gums, but it must be treated to avoid more serious gum disease.
Impacted/Wisdom Teeth
An impacted tooth is one that fails to properly emerge through the gums. Dr. Clay will recommend extraction of impacted wisdom teeth if they pose a problem for your mouth and other teeth.
Oral Cancer
Early detection is the key to successful treatment of oral cancers, so Dr. Clay is the first line of defense. Ask him about oral cancer screening at your next regular visit.
Periodontal Disease (Periodontitis)
Periodontitis is advanced gum disease. While gingivitis, the earlier stage, affects only the gums, periodontitis is infection that has spread to surrounding tissue, including tooth and bone.
Plaque
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that coats teeth. When we eat, plaque reacts with the food in our mouth and releases acids that eat away at teeth enamel, causing tooth decay.
Sensitive Teeth
Tooth Sensitivity is a very common problem that can be treated effectively by Dr. Clay with different products and techniques. It occurs when gums have receded or tooth enamel is worn down to reveal the sensitive parts of the tooth.
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Bruxism is either the clenching or grinding of teeth, or both of them together. Dr. Clay will often recommend a mouth appliance to prevent damage to your teeth, and stress reduction to change the behavior.
Toothache
There are many possible causes for a toothache. Two of the most common dental causes are the presence of a cavity or an abscess. Some of the other causes of toothache are quite serious, so you should certainly consult Dr. Clay for a proper diagnosis.