Find Out Common Types of Dental Diseases

Dental problems can be very troublesome. Fortunately, most of them can be easily prevented. By brushing twice daily, flossing once a day, having a healthy diet, and getting regular dental checkups, you can enjoy good oral health. It helps to educate yourself on the most common dental diseases and their causes, to help you take steps in preventing them. Below is a list of common dental problems.

  • Bad Breath. Bad breath or halitosis is a very embarrassing dental problem. It can be caused by a wide range of dental issues, including gum disease, oral cancer, cavities, dry mouth, and bacteria in the tongue. Merely using mouthwash will only mask the smell, and not cure it. Those with chronic bad breath should visit the dentist.
  • Tooth Decay. Otherwise known as cavities, tooth decay is one of the most prevalent diseases in the United States. It happens when plaque combines with the starches and sugars of the food you eat, producing acids that attack the tooth enamel. To prevent tooth decay, you need to brush, floss and have regular dental checkups. Your dentist can recommend treatments to reduce your risk.
  • Gum Disease. Gum disease is the infection of the gums around the teeth, and is one of the leading causes of tooth loss. Some studies even link it to heart disease. Everyone is at risk for gum disease, but most especially those who smoke, have diabetes, or those suffering from dry mouth. See a dentist if you suffer from gum disease to prevent further complications like tooth loss.
  • Oral Cancer. Mostly seen in people aged over 40 years, oral cancer is often curable when diagnosed and treated in its early stages. Its biggest risk factors are alcohol and tobacco use. HPV also increases a person’s risk. Symptoms include lumps, sores, and rough areas in the mouth. Patients also experience a change in their bite and difficulty in chewing and moving their tongues.
  • Mouth Sores. Unless a mouth sore lasts more than two weeks, it will mostly disappear on its own. Canker sores are common mouth sores that occur inside the mouth. They can be triggered by different causes but are not contagious and should go away after a few weeks. Cold sores, on the other hand, occur on the edge of the outer lips. They are contagious and will come and go.
  • Tooth Erosion. Caused by acid attacking the enamel, this refers to the loss of tooth structure. Its signs and symptoms can range from sensitivity to cracking. This might be very common, but this can be easily prevented.
  • Tooth Sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity is a common problem and involves pain or discomfort in your teeth because of sweets, hot drinks, cold drinks, and cold air. There are also people who also experience discomfort from brushing and flossing. Fortunately, sensitivity can be treated. Sensitive teeth can be a sign of a tooth abscess or cracked tooth, which needs to be immediately treated by a dentist.
  • Toothaches and Dental Emergencies. These can easily be avoided by regularly visiting the dentist, but accidents can still happen. Dental emergencies can be scary and painful. Examples include cracked or broken teeth, abscessed teeth, and knocked-out teeth. Go to the emergency room if you have a fractured or dislocated haw or big cuts to your mouth, lips, or tongue.

Many dental diseases can be highly preventable. You just have to have a solid oral care routine and regularly visit your dentist for routine cleaning and checkup. If you find yourself with a dental emergency, go to the emergency room so it can be taken care of immediately and any possible complications are avoided. Talk to your dentist to learn more about dental diseases and how to avoid them.

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Find Out Common Types of Dental Diseases
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Find Out Common Types of Dental Diseases
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Dental problems can be very troublesome. Fortunately, most of them can be easily prevented. By brushing twice daily, flossing once a day, having a healthy diet, and getting regular dental checkups, you can enjoy good oral health.
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D. Dental
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