Monday, April 28, 2014

Dry Mouth

Sometimes i have patients who are concerned about dry mouth.  Dry mouth is a symptom of a lack from saliva production.  It is most commonly associated with taking some medications.  After talking to your physician, you might be able to switch to another medication if you think the current medication you are taking is causing your dry mouth.  Lack of salivary flow also can be generally associated with aging.  Regardless of the cause of dry mouth it can be devastating to the teeth because it allows for rampant cavity production.  The best defense against that is good oral care at home and a regular visit with your dentist.  If you need a regular checkup, give us a call or check out our website for more information. 

-Dr. Cooper
859-266-2570

Cooper Family Dentistry is a dental office located in the Lansdowne Shopping Center on Tates Creek Rd. in Lexington, KY dedicated to helping you and your family achieve the best oral care.

Sunday, April 20, 2014

Canker Sores (Apthous Ulcers)

Once in a while i get a question about Canker Sores, otherwise known as apthous ulcers.  Some are simple, where others are complex.  Both types hurt and can make talking and chewing uncomfortable.  The root cause of canker sores is unknown, but i believe it's likely viral in nature much like fever blisters are.  Fever blisters occur on the lip's border whereas canker sores always occur on mucosal tissue in a person's mouth.  Canker sores appear on non-bound tissue such has floor of mouth, cheek, and vestibule.  There isn't a solution that works all the time.  Mostly, it's a waiting game for the canker sore(s) to run their course.  I've even tried using a laser to create a cover over the sore, but it doesn't work every time.  It's believed that they appear after stress, eating acidic foods, or having a deficiency in B12, iron, or folic acid.  If you have more questions about canker sores or your overall dental health please visit our website at the link below or give us a call to schedule an appointment.

-Dr. Cooper
859-266-2570

Cooper Family Dentistry is a dental office located in the Lansdowne Shopping Center on Tates Creek Rd. in Lexington, KY dedicated to helping you and your family achieve the best oral care.

Wednesday, April 16, 2014

Teeth Grinding and Biteguard Therapy

I have many patients who grind their teeth, so i get asked routinely about options to fix this problem.  For some, it's as easy as making a biteguard that one sleeps in to prevent further trouble from occurring.  For others it might involve muscle relaxers, or finding the root cause of their worries.  Sometimes it can be a tooth or sinus issue.  I typically ask a series of questions when patients come in and work with them to find the appropriate solution.  Broken teeth are often a sign that you may grind your teeth.  If you grind or clench your teeth, or just need a regular checkup, give us a call or visit our website for more information.

-Dr. Cooper
859-266-2570

Cooper Family Dentistry is a dental office located in the Lansdowne Shopping Center on Tates Creek Rd. in Lexington, KY dedicated to helping you and your family achieve the best oral care.