Dental Problems Post Gastric Band Surgery

Introduction

Gastric banding is a type of bariatric surgery that is used to help people who are obese or overweight to lose weight. It involves placing an adjustable silicone band around the upper part of the stomach, restricting the amount of food it can hold and creating a feeling of fullness with smaller amounts of food. Despite being an effective procedure for weight loss, it also has implications for dental health. Read more to find out about how your dentist orpinton can help.

What is a Gastric Band?

A gastric band is a device which fits around the inside of the upper part of your stomach to create a small pouch. This helps reduce the amount you can eat at each meal by making you feel fuller quicker and longer, ultimately helping you to achieve your desired weight loss goals.

How can this affect your teeth?

When having a gastric band fitted, the patient must follow a specific diet plan to ensure that they are getting all of the nutrients and vitamins their body needs but in smaller amounts. This is often high in sugar and acidic foods which can cause tooth decay. Eating large meals quickly may also increase the risk of dental erosion due to increased levels of stomach acid in the mouth which can damage enamel. Furthermore, some medications used alongside bariatric surgery such as antacids can be abrasive on teeth and gums.

What can a dentist do to help this?

Your dentist will be able to advise you on how best to look after your oral health while undergoing gastric banding. Your dentist will be able to recommend a good oral hygiene routine, as well as advice on dietary changes that can help reduce the risk of dental decay and erosion. Regular visits to your dentist are also important, as they can monitor any signs of tooth decay or erosion and advise you on the best way to prevent further damage.

Finally, a dentist may recommend products such as fluoridated mouthwashes and gels which can help protect against decay and erosion by reducing plaque build up and strengthening enamel. Overall, it is essential for patients with gastric bands to take extra care of their oral health in order to reduce the risk of developing dental issues due to this procedure.

What can you do to help prevent tooth problems post surgery?

A patient who has a gastric band fitted can do much to help reduce any potential tooth problems. It is important that they maintain a good oral hygiene routine, including brushing teeth at least twice a day with an age-appropriate fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily. Regular visits to the dentist orpington are also important, as they can identify any problems early on and provide advice on how best to prevent further damage.

Moreover, it is important for patients to be aware of their dietary changes in regards to dental health. For example, patients should avoid sugary foods and drinks which can cause tooth decay, as well as acidic foods which can cause erosion. Additionally, snacking between meals should be avoided where possible as this increases the risk of dental decay. Eating slower and chewing food properly is also recommended as it reduces the amount of stomach acid entering the mouth.

Conclusion

Gastric banding is an effective tool for weight loss, but it’s important to be aware that there may be implications for dental health too. By following a healthy diet, maintaining good oral hygiene and visiting your dentist regularly, you can minimise any potential risks to your teeth caused by this procedure. With the right guidance from professionals, you can be sure that you are doing everything you can to protect your teeth and overall health.

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