Can Someone with Very Bad Teeth or Gum Disease Get Cosmetic Dentistry Done?

Yes, it is possible to undergo cosmetic dentistry even if you have severely decayed teeth or gum disease. However, the process requires addressing these initial conditions first. Ignoring cavities and gum disease can lead to further complications and prevent the success of cosmetic treatments.

Understanding the Preparatory Steps

Before embarking on cosmetic dentistry, it is crucial to ensure that any existing cavities and gum disease are managed effectively. A skilled dentist who skips these necessary steps is not practicing up to standard and can compromise the long-term health and results of your cosmetic treatments.

Managing Cavities and Gum Disease

To improve your oral health, follow these recommendations for managing cavities and gum disease:

Saliva: Ensure you have adequate saliva as it plays a vital role in maintaining oral health. pH: Control the acidity of the oral environment as it is influenced by specific bacteria. Diet: Reduce sugar and carbohydrate intake, as they promote bacterial growth. Bacteria: Address the imbalances in the oral microbiome by reducing harmful Streptococcus mutans strains.

Relevance of Clinical Research

For a comprehensive understanding of the recommendations provided, refer to the following clinical guidelines:

CAMBRA (Caries Management by Risk Assessment) Research on the use of 0.25 hypochlorite for controlling periodontal disease Studies on aggressive periodontitis and its treatment with 0.25 hypochlorite

Challenges in Cavity Prevention

Contrary to popular belief, there is no direct correlation between routine oral hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing and the prevention of cavities. Some populations around the world, including those who never brush or floss, do not develop cavities. This is attributed to the role of various factors beyond mechanical cleaning.

The Four Critical Factors

Saliva: The volume and quality of saliva are essential for maintaining oral health. pH: The pH level of the oral environment, influenced by bacterial activity, impacts cavity formation. Diet: High sugar and carbohydrate consumption promote bacterial growth, leading to cavities. Bacteria: Managing the population of harmful Streptococcus mutans species is key to preventing cavities.

Clinical Paradigms in Dentistry

Dentistry often follows a curative approach, like the carpenter's analogy, where problems are addressed after they occur rather than preventing them. This is not ideal, as it can lead to repeated interventions and poor long-term outcomes.

The recommended approach involves:

Identifying and removing the source of the problem, such as harmful bacteria causing cavities. Using comprehensive risk assessment to identify cavities and gum disease. Implementing preventive measures, such as using 0.25 hypochlorite.

Using Xylitol and Bleach Solutions

Taking two teaspoons of chlorine laundry bleach into one quart of water and using it once a week can effectively manage harmful bacteria. For those unable to tolerate the full amount, one teaspoon is sufficient. Chewing gum with xylitol can also be an effective alternative to improve oral health.

In cases of periodontal disease, rinsing with the aforementioned bleach solution can be beneficial. Specific protocols must be followed, and regular dental check-ups are crucial.

Targeting Aggressive Periodontitis

Aggressive periodontitis, caused by the Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans JP2 strain, is identified through its distinctive odor and rapid destruction of gum and bone. This condition responds well to doxycycline treatment, which should be followed by a course of diluted bleach solutions.

Final Thoughts

Adopting the recommended practices can significantly improve your oral health, paving the way for successful cosmetic dentistry procedures. Regular dental check-ups, proper diet, and adherence to the described strategies are crucial for long-term oral health.