Most oral health conditions are largely preventable and can be treated in their early stages. That being said, tooth trouble still poses a major health burden for many countries and can affect a person at virtually any point throughout their lifetime. Furthermore, poor oral health is associated with other chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. To prevent more serious oral health issues, here is how you can reduce your risk for the 3 most common oral health problems.
3 of the Most Common Oral Health Problems
The World Health Organization estimates that oral diseases affect close to 3.5 billion people worldwide. Despite developments in oral hygiene awareness, these conditions are still quite common. Here are the top 3 oral health problems and their causes:
Cavities (Tooth Decay)
Although cavities are easily prevented, they are one of the most common chronic diseases. More than 90% of adults have had a cavity.
Cavities are a form of tooth decay that develop over the course of anywhere from a few months to a few years. When bacteria in your mouth turn sugars into acid, your enamel is in danger. A continued high intake of sugar without proper cleaning can wear away the outer coating of a tooth and expose the inside. This can result in anything from slight discomfort to severe pain. It can also cause tooth loss and infection if left untreated.
Gum (Periodontal) Disease
Gum disease affects the tissues that surround and support the teeth and is characterized by bleeding or swollen gums (gingivitis), pain, and sometimes bad breath. In the early stages, it is treatable and even reversible. However, if it goes untreated, it can lead to tooth loss. Severe gum disease affects around 19% of adults around the world.
A weakened immune system, diabetes, and heredity can increase one’s risk for gum disease. Additionally, bad habits such as poor oral hygiene and tobacco usage are important risk factors.
Oral Cancer
Oral cancer is the 13th most common cancer worldwide. Typically, this form of cancer is found in patients who engage in poor oral habits such as smoking tobacco products or excessively consuming alcohol. That being said, early detection and intervention are key to increasing a person’s chances of beating oral cancer.
How to Prevent Common Oral Diseases
It’s important to develop preventive habits and lifestyle changes to protect your smile. To ensure your pearly whites stay in mint condition, you should:
- Brush your teeth thoroughly for two minutes at least twice a day.
- Floss and use mouthwash daily.
- Consume sugar in moderation (and if you do, rinse or brush after).
- Quit poor oral habits (e.g., smoking, drinking alcohol excessively).
- Keep up with your six-month dental checkups and cleanings.
Although oral health problems are relatively common, you can take measures to protect yourself from adding to the statistics! If you want to know what more you can do to prevent oral diseases, talk to your dentist about their recommendations.
About the Practice
At Transforming Smiles, Drs. Carter and Zafrani are committed to enhancing smiles and enriching lives. The practice uses the best in dental technology and techniques to protect and improve your oral health and wellbeing so that you leave every appointment feeling completely rejuvenated and comfortable. If you want to learn more about common oral diseases, contact the Transforming Smiles Team at their website or by phone at (770) 995-7616.