5 Most Widespread Dental Diseases and Problems
Untreated dental problems can have a significant effect on your overall general health. The state of your oral health is an important indicator of the state of the rest of your body. There is a strong correlation between poor oral health and chronic diseases such as heart disease, HIV/AIDS, and diabetes. In order to avoid compromising your health, it is important to pay attention to your oral health and treat any dental problems you may have. The five most widespread dental diseases and problems are gum disease, tooth decay, tooth sensitivity, bad breath, and dry mouth.
No one likes going to the dentist, and it can certainly be an inconvenience to brush and floss more than once a day, but these daily practices are important in order to prevent and treat the five most common dental problems.
Gum Disease
Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums around the teeth and it is most frequently caused by the buildup of plaque. Plaque is a bacterial film that accumulates on the teeth and under the gums. Gingivitis is reversible if caught early, but if ignored it can lead to a more serious form of gum disease called periodontitis. By brushing and flossing twice daily, eating a balanced diet, and getting regular dental checkups, you can avoid periodontitis.
Cavities
If you have decaying teeth, you have cavities. Cavities are the second most common oral disease in the country. The common cold is the most common disease. You develop cavities when plaque forms on the teeth. When the plaque is combined with sugars and starches from the foods we eat, the acid produced damages the enamel of the teeth.
Cavities can occur at any age, from early childhood through old age. In young people, the consumption of candy, sugared soft drinks, and other junk foods contributes to the development of cavities. In older people, regular use of certain medications can cause dry mouth, which accelerates the erosion of the enamel on the teeth.
You can prevent cavities in the same way that you can prevent gum disease. Brush twice daily, floss every day, see your dentist regularly, eat healthy foods, and avoid sugary foods and acidy soft drinks.
Tooth Sensitivity
If your teeth hurt when you eat ice cream or when you drink a hot beverage such as tea, then you have sensitive teeth. This condition is caused by several reasons:
- Eroded tooth enamel
- Broken teeth
- Cavities
- Old, worn tooth fillings
- Gingivitis and periodontitis
- Tooth roots that are exposed
There are effective treatments for tooth sensitivity. Desensitizing toothpaste is an effective treatment for people with sensitive teeth. Good oral hygiene is key to preventing and treating tooth sensitivity. Your dentist can provide further suggestions for how to treat your sensitive teeth.
Bad Breath
Chronic bad breath is a sign of other, often more serious, dental problems. The formal name for bad breath is halitosis. It can be embarrassing, but that is the least of your worries. Bad breath can be the result of dry mouth, gum disease, plaque buildup, cavities, and, in the most serious cases, oral cancer.
Practice good oral hygiene, follow a healthy, balanced diet, and see your dentist regularly to prevent the more serious causes of bad breath. For less serious cases of bad breath such as that caused by eating certain foods, brush your teeth and use a good mouthwash to treat your bad breath.
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is caused by a decreased production of saliva. It can cause other problems such as difficulty speaking, eating, and increased digestive issues. More serious problems such as mouth and throat disorders can also be caused by dry mouth.
Prevention is Best
Good oral health is serious business. There is much you can do to prevent these five most common dental diseases.
- Brush twice a day
- Floss daily
- Eat properly
- See your dentist regularly