J. MATTHEW HOGENDOBLER D.M.D.

Long in the Tooth is Not Natural

You may have heard an older person humorously referred to as being "long in the tooth." This old idiom refers to a way to determine the age (and decreased value) of a horse because its gums recede as it ages.

First and foremost, it is a myth that receding gums is a natural part of the human aging process. Second, your teeth stopped growing when you were young.

Receding gums might be funny on a horse, but they are no laughing matter to an elderly person. Being called long in the tooth is unflattering, but most importantly, it can indicate that you have a serious dental problem.

If you have noticed over time that your crowns seem to be getting longer, it is wise to have us examine your teeth to rule out any existing problem that needs to be corrected so that you do not risk losing your teeth.

One of the symptoms of a serious dental condition called periodontal disease is receding gums. The most common dental problem and the number one cause of tooth loss in adults is periodontal disease. It has also been connected to heart disease, pancreatic cancer, diabetes, and stroke.

There is no cure for periodontal disease, but it is treatable. When caught in its earliest stage, we can halt the bacteria's destruction by performing simple in-office procedures.

Once we have treated your periodontal disease, you will need to maintain a faithful oral care routine at home; otherwise, the disease will rebound and start its vicious destructive march again.

If it is time for your check-up or you have a concern, call and make an appointment. Make a list of anything unusual you have noticed in your mouth or that you have questions or concerns about, and bring the list to your appointment.

Together, we can discuss your oral health and help your teeth stay their best to last you a lifetime. Just say " Neigh" to periodontal disease!