GERD Can Cause Missing Teeth
The oral cavity and digestive system are closely interconnected. This is because once food is chewed, it passes directly down towards the stomach and digestion begins. However, what goes down can sometimes come back up again, if a person suffers from GERD.
Dr. Hauser Discusses GERD
Dr. Hauser of Lakefront Family Dentistry has been in business for over 20 years. GERD is a challenging problem he cannot treat since it falls under the category of a general practitioner’s care. He is able to, fortunately, restore damaged dentition and implement protective measures that will help the patient get through this horrible phase with all of his or her teeth still intact.
Yet, depending upon the severity of the decay from GERD, other options such as dental implants, CEREC veneers or crowns might be required. Call or set up an appointment and meet with Dr. Hauser to see if you have decay from GERD.
What Exactly Is GERD?
GERD is short for gastroesophageal reflux disease or acid reflux. To start, let us talk about digestion. Our stomach produces hydrochloric acid to digest food. The only reason our stomach is able to withstand this type of acid is because the cells in this area produce a thick mucus that acts as a barrier to withstand the acidity.
Food enters the stomach through the esophagus. The lower esophageal sphincter relaxes to allow food to enter, then tightens to prevent it from going back up again. However, people who suffer from GERD have sphincters that relax between swallows. This allows the corrosive acid to enter the esophagus and damages the lining.
GERD can be caused by a number of factors. People who drink alcohol, smoke, are obese, and those with poor posture are most likely to develop this condition. Those who enjoy eating large meals and/or like to eat before bedtime are likely to suffer from the same disease.
Certain physical conditions can cause acid reflux as well. GERD is common in people who have diabetes, are pregnant, those with hiatal hernias or individuals who have gone through rapid weight gain.
Please note that certain medications can cause this problem, too. This includes: theophylline; nitrates; antihistamines; beta blockers and calcium channel blockers. Therefore, people who take any of these medications should ask their physician for GERD maintenance medication as well.
Dr. Hauser informs his patients that their food choices can make the problem worse. Certain types of food can exacerbate the problem. This includes mint flavorings, tomatoes, spicy food, citrus fruits, caffeine, fried food, chocolate and garlic.
GERD and Dentistry
Dr. Hauser has worked hard to restore the smiles of many people who suffer from this condition. Remember, treatment will vary based on the severity of the damage. Call or make an appointment with Dr. Hauser to discuss the best treatment plan for your case.
People who suffer from GERD will experience tooth demineralization. The corrosive acid will damage the dentition at some point and may irritate the oral tissue as well. The demineralization of enamel provides bacteria with an ideal point of entry, allowing it to wreak havoc on the internal structure of the teeth.
This is why Dr. Hauser urges patients who suffer from GERD to be more proactive when it comes to their teeth, especially if they have lost even one tooth to this disease. They should follow their physician’s orders to control acid reflux and take the necessary medication. This will protect what is left of their natural dentition.
If you or your loved ones are suffering from GERD and would like to know more about preventive dental measures, Dr. Hauser of Lakefront Family Dentistry should be your first choice. You can call (951) 244-9495 or go online to schedule an appointment now.
