Nobody Ever Told Me That!

Nobody Ever Told Me About That!

1. You will look older faster with the following dental problems: gum disease, missing, stained or broken teeth; and ill-fitting dentures or bridges.

2. Amalgam (silver) fillings can expand and, over a period of years, cause natural teeth to crack.

3. A crown is recommended for several reasons. One reason is to reestablish the biting surfaces of the teeth. Another may be to prevent an "at risk" tooth from cracking.

4. A 200-pound man with full mouth dentures has less chewing force than his 90-year old aunt who has all her teeth.

5. Over time, teeth can become discolored from age or continuous exposure to tea, coffee, red wine, dark colas, and tobacco. These stains go deep into the surface of the tooth. In order to get teeth really white, talk to your dentist about a professional whitening that will penetrate the tooth's enamel.

6. Gum disease can lead to the spread of infection through your blood stream, resulting in a loss of energy, creating fatigue.

7. Diet sodas, cough drops, and chewing tobacco can cause tooth decay.

8. People mistakenly believe that their teeth must touch at all times. Not so. In fact, unless you are chewing, talking, or swallowing, your jaw should be in a relaxed, slack position.