It’s no secret that oral health is important. In fact, it’s been said that oral health is a window into our overall health. That’s because oral health problems can be indicators of other health problems. For example, gum disease has been linked to heart disease and stroke. So it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene and avoid oral health problems!
However, a lot of people these days neglect oral health and don’t take oral hygiene seriously. This is quite surprising because oral health problems affect over half of the world’s population. In fact, 90% of adults worldwide have some form of tooth decay or gum disease.
The most common oral problem around the world is dental caries (tooth decay). Tooth decay causes pain and discomfort that can disrupt your daily life. If left untreated, it can eventually cause tooth loss as well as other serious complications like infections and abscesses in your mouth.
The good news is that oral health problems are preventable if you practice good oral hygiene habits. Discover the common oral health problems below and how to deal with them properly:
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Tooth decay
Tooth decay is the most common oral health problem in the world. It is a bacterial infection that causes cavities (holes) to form in your teeth. Tooth decay can be prevented by brushing and flossing your teeth regularly, eating a healthy diet, and visiting your dentist for regular checkups.
If you already have tooth decay, your dentist will likely prescribe antibiotics or oral surgery to treat it. In severe cases, you may need to have a tooth extraction (removal) or you might need teeth replacement services.
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Gum disease
Gum disease is caused by plaque — a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. Gum disease can lead to swollen gums, bad breath, and even tooth loss if left untreated. The best way to prevent gum disease is by brushing and flossing your teeth regularly, eating a healthy diet, and visiting your dentist for regular checkups.
If you already have gum disease, your dentist will likely recommend oral surgery or antibiotics to treat it. In severe cases of gum disease, oral surgery may be required.
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Dry mouth
Dry mouth can be caused by many factors including certain medications (such as antidepressants and antihistamines), smoking cigarettes or chewing tobacco products, dehydration from not drinking enough water every day, and medical conditions such as diabetes mellitus.
The best way to prevent dry mouth is by drinking lots of water throughout the day, avoiding cigarettes/tobacco products and other substances that may cause dryness in the mouth (e.g., alcohol), and seeing your doctor if you are taking any medications that may be causing the problem.
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Cavities
Cavities are holes in the teeth that can form as a result of tooth decay. Tooth decay is caused by bacteria that live in the mouth and produce acids that attack the enamel (the hard outer coating) of the teeth.
The best way to prevent cavities is by brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing once a day, and visiting your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
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Tooth loss
Tooth loss can be caused by many factors including gum disease, dental injuries, and poor oral hygiene habits. The best way to prevent tooth loss is by practicing good oral hygiene all the time so that oral health problems do not develop and progress.
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Chronic bad breath (halitosis)
Bad breath is caused by bacteria that linger in the mouth. The best way to prevent chronic bad breath is by brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing once a day, and rinsing with an antibacterial oral rinse at least twice a day.
Also, avoid sugary foods or drinks as they can contribute to tooth decay and oral infections which can also lead to bad breath. It’s best to use toothpaste that contains fluoride to help protect your teeth from decay.
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Gingivitis
Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that can be treated with good oral hygiene practices including brushing, flossing, and rinsing with an antibacterial oral rinse. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis which is a more serious form of gum disease.
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Periodontitis
Periodontitis is a more serious form of gum disease that can lead to tooth loss if not treated. It is caused by plaque (a sticky film of bacteria) that builds up on the teeth over time. The best way to prevent periodontitis is by practicing good oral hygiene habits including brushing twice a day, flossing regularly, and rinsing with a mouth wash.
Putting Oral Health First
Your oral health is important. Keeping oral health issues at bay can prevent serious oral infections and damage as well as lowering your risk of other health problems including heart disease, stroke, diabetes complications, osteoporosis, respiratory illnesses, and more.
It’s important to practice good oral hygiene habits daily including brushing twice a day for two minutes each time with fluoride toothpaste, flossing once a day to remove plaque between the teeth, using an antibacterial oral rinse regularly, and eating healthy foods. This way, you won’t have to worry about oral health problems compromising your overall health and well-being.