Oral Health

Question 1

What is dental caries?

Answer 1

Dental caries (cavities) is the most common chronic disease in children, with an incidence rate around 45% for NZ children.
Due to bacteria action which produces more acid that demineralises the tooth.
Due to presences of sugars and lack of oxygen.
Susceptibility factors are: poor oral hygiene, minor tooth defectsm decreased saliva, inadequate fluoride

Question 2

What is gingivitis?

Answer 2

Mild inflammation of gums causing swelling, redness, some bleeding.
Can develop into periodontits if left untreated.

Question 3

What is periodontitis?

Answer 3

Destructive gun disease with loss of gums.
Often associated with systemic inflammation.
Periondontal attachement lost completely.

Question 4

What are the 5 stages of decay?

Answer 4

1) Enamel lesions (white spots)
2) Enamel decay (loss of enamel - yellowing)
3) Dentine decay - breakdown of dentine resulting in cavity (inner tooth)
4) Pulp involvement - reaches BV and nerves
5) Abcess formation - base of root and likely infecting bone

Question 5

Poor oral health has been implicated as contributing to what?

Answer 5

Bacteria can enter the BV.
Can lead to clots and BV constriction - leading to stroke, heart disease, imparied peripheral circulation.
Respiratory disease.
Preterm labour and birth.
Tooth decay & discolouration.

Question 6

Factors that can cause periodontal disease?

Answer 6

Smoking
Pregnancy
Diabetes
Hereditary