Many people are becoming concerned about oral health issues. These issues can cause severe irritation in the mouth, disrupt the appearance, and affect overall health in many ways. Problems like cavities, sensitivity, gum diseases, bad breath, and dry mouth can be problematic in daily life as well as in the long run. To avoid such problems, you should know the causes behind these issues and ways to treat them. In this blog, we discuss common oral health issues and ways to prevent and treat them.
Tooth Decay and Cavities
Tooth decay is often caused by poor oral hygiene and high sugar intake. The sugar you eat is deposited on the surfaces and gaps of teeth and contributes to bacterial growth. If proper oral hygiene practices are not followed, these bacteria release acids that cause cavities and tooth decay.
Cavities can be spotted by visible holes or pits in the teeth that are darker than your usual tooth color, toothache, and sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods. While toothache and sensitivity are later symptoms, visible holes in the teeth can be an early sign you should not overlook.
Preventing cavities is much easier than restoring natural teeth after they have been affected by them. This includes regular brushing and flossing, limiting sugary and acidic foods and beverages, and using fluoride toothpaste for brushing. Also, regular dental checkups are necessary to determine oral health conditions.
Gum Disease (Gingivitis and Periodontitis)
Gum diseases are caused by infection of the gums. Other factors, such as plaque buildup, tobacco use, poor oral hygiene, and hormonal changes that affect the body in multiple ways, can also cause gum diseases. Gum diseases can be painful and uncomfortable.
Red, swollen gums that bleed while brushing or flossing, bad breath, and receding gums are some of the symptoms that often suggest gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis.
Gum diseases can be prevented by practicing good oral hygiene, regularly getting professional cleanings, and eating a balanced diet. Tobacco use is another cause of gum infections, so it should be avoided to maintain gum health.
Bad Breath (Halitosis)
Bad breath is a common dental issue mainly caused by poor oral hygiene, diet, and medical conditions. Food particles or debris stuck between teeth can also contribute to bad breath. Decreased saliva production causes dry mouth, which in turn causes stale breath.
Bad breath can be normally diagnosed by looking for persistent smelly breath, an unpleasant taste in the mouth, and a dry feeling mouth.
To prevent and treat bad breath, brush your teeth twice daily, clean your tongue after brushing, and stay hydrated. Also, avoid foods with a hard smell that may be causing bad breath.
Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity causes high oral irritation. This can be due to the tooth enamel wearing off, tooth roots exposed from the gums, cavities, and gum diseases.
Diagnosing tooth sensitivity is very easy. You just have to notice if you have pain or discomfort while consuming hot or cold foods and drinks.
To prevent sensitivity, consult your dentist for a specialized toothpaste, avoid acidic foods and beverages, and brush gently with a soft toothbrush.
Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
Dry mouth is a condition in which the mouth does not produce enough saliva to keep itself hydrated. This may result in difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking, cracked lips, and bad breath. This condition can be caused by medications, aging, medical conditions, and dehydration, which are common occurrences.
Drinking plenty of water, chewing sugar-free gum, and avoiding dehydrating beverages like coffee and alcoholic beverages can prevent dry mouth.
Tooth Erosion
Tooth erosion is another oral issue in which you experience sensitivity, discolored teeth, rounded teeth, and cracked edges of teeth. These are usually caused by acid reflux, bulimia, and dry mouth. Tooth erosion can be prevented by rinsing the mouth thoroughly after meals, limiting acidic beverages, and visiting a dentist regularly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, oral health issues are mainly caused by improper oral hygiene, poor diet, and avoiding dental visits. Thus, it is recommended that you visit a dentist regularly and follow their suggested dental tips and diet to prevent oral damage. For an ideal dental consultation, visit Rathi Dental Center, the most preferred Dental clinic in Juhu.