What your teeth reveal to our dentist in West Byfleet
Did you know that a dental check-up reveals more than just how often you brush your teeth?
Teeth say a lot about our lives, from our chances of developing heart disease to our diets and lifestyle. They are often used by archaeologists to determine which illnesses may have been present centuries ago too!
So, it is fair to say that when you attend a dental checkup, your gnashers will say more about you than you ever could.
At Byfleet Dental, our dentist in West Byfleet is always happy to see new patients and can help you with any aspect of dental care from brushing techniques to dietary advice and even smoking cessation.
With that in mind, what are some of the things that our dentist in West Byfleet can determine by looking at your teeth and gums? Read on to find out!
Smoking
As obvious as it sounds, our dentist in West Byfleet can spot a smoker!
And no, it isn’t to do with the yellowing of your teeth, although that can be an indicator. Even if you have had your teeth professionally whitened, we can notice the signs of smoking via your breath and gums.
The gums of smokers are often spongier in texture and more susceptible to gum disease and ulcers. So, if we ask you whether you smoke, don’t fib!
If you are looking to get help with smoking cessation, our team can offer support.
Diet
Do you have a sweet tooth? Do you drink a lot of soda? Your teeth will tell all!
Patients who eat softer foods such as pasta, certain meats and boiled vegetables often have a higher incidence of plaque on their teeth since harder foods often scrape off plaque as they are chewed.
Suppose you consume a lot of soda or sugar, the enamel on your teeth is likely to be thinner, heightening the chance of you developing cavities and decay. Should we spot this, we may offer fluoride sealants to protect your teeth and dietary advice.
Eating disorders
This is an unfortunate aspect of mental health that can be spotted during a dental checkup. If you suffer from anorexia and/or bulimia, you are at a higher risk of suffering from malnutrition, which can lead to weakened teeth due to a lack of calcium.
Also, if you suffer from bulimia or another eating disorder that increases the incidence of vomiting, your teeth are likely to suffer from acid erosion due to the presence of stomach acid in your mouth.
In such instances, we will aim to protect your teeth and support you in seeking other sources of medical help.
Stress
Stress is on the rise in the UK and around the globe, and yes, it does show up during a dental examination!
How? Patients who suffer from stress are more likely to bite their nails and grind their teeth, both of which can cause chipping and erosion of the enamel. Should we spot these signs, we may offer you a mouthguard to alleviate grinding and advice on how to prevent damage to your teeth.