Preventive Dentistry

Most Teeth Are Lost for a Surprising Reason
A general assumption is that most teeth are lost because of advanced decay. But the main reason is periodontal (gum) disease. This type of infection is not always symptomatic. However, noticeable symptoms would be bleeding gums after brushing or flossing, and inflamed, red gums. Gum surgery is not always the only option. There are nonsurgical ways to correct this problem as well.
Gum Disease is Linked to Serious Health Concerns
Medical research has identified gum disease as a contributing factor to heart problems, stroke, and diabetes. As these conditions are serious problems affecting your general health, dentists are even more concerned about infection in the gums. The American Dental Association has estimated that 80% of the adult American population has bacterial infection in their gums at some stage. It is now a more serious matter that affects more than your teeth.

The American Academy of Periodontology reports that “studies found periodontal infection may contribute to the development of heart disease, increase the risk of premature, underweight births, and pose a serious threat to people whose health is already compromised due to diabetes and respiratory diseases.” The bacteria that start in the gums will travel in the blood to vital organs, compromising your health.

Easy Treatment for Periodontal Disease
Don’t put off coming into our office at the first signs of a gum infection. Once the disease is advanced, surgery may be your only option. But in milder cases, nonsurgical means that are easy and pain-free often reverse the problem. Both methods are generally covered by dental insurance.

Is Missing a Tooth a Problem?
Yes! Even one absent tooth can cause other problems. The open gap between teeth can cause other teeth to start to shift or loosen. This also affects the amount of nutrients you receive from your food when chewing with fewer teeth. Missing teeth allow bone loss, which eventually makes you look much older than you are. And your speech may not always be clear and easy to understand. Weight gain can result if you start to eat soft, easy to eat, high-calorie foods.

We can replace all missing teeth with dental implants. They function just like a real tooth and look completely natural. You will be pleased to recapture a full smile and be able to eat any foods you like.

For Good Health and Better Energy
Dental health goes beyond a pretty smile with no toothaches. The best dental health is a part of your overall health and vitality. Dr. Kava does more than just diagnose and fix a specific problem. He creates a visual history that is stored in our computer’s database. This lets him better assess your dental problems to achieve long-lasting goals and continued health. Our professional team will always work with you, based on your oral history and current problems, to return and sustain gum and teeth well-being.

Dr. Rick Kava's Sioux City Dental 
2930 Hamilton Blvd., Upper F Suite 101 
Sioux City, IA 51104 
(712) 258-6169 
DrKava.com