The majority of dental problems can be prevented with adequate home care and regular dental check-ups. Various conditions such as tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer are common dental issues that can have serious consequences if not detected and treated early. Here are some preventative measures you can adopt to maintain your oral health and combat these common dental conditions.
1. Tooth Decay: Commonly known as cavities, tooth decay occurs when plaque, the sticky substance that forms on teeth, combines with the sugars and /or starches of the food we eat. This combination produces acids that attack tooth enamel. To prevent this, regular cleaning of teeth is important. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride-containing toothpaste and floss daily to remove plaque from between your teeth and under your gum line, before it can harden into tartar. Limit sugary or starchy foods, particularly sticky snacks. Additionally, regular dental check-ups are crucial because they can detect early stages of tooth decay.
2. Gum Disease: Also known as periodontal disease, it is an infection of the gums surrounding the teeth. Plaque and tartar accumulation around the gums are the key causes of gum disease. Preventing gum disease involves performing thorough daily tooth brushing. Use a soft, rounded-tip bristled toothbrush and floss daily. Be sure to visit your dental professional regularly, at dental conditions least twice a year, for professional cleaning and check-ups.
3. Oral Cancer: Oral cancer is a serious and deadly condition that affects millions of people. This type of cancer can affect any part of the mouth, including the lips, gums, tongue, cheeks, and floor and roof of the mouth. Prevention of oral cancer involves avoiding risk factors like tobacco and alcohol use. Regular dental visits can help catch oral cancer early — oral exams during a dental checkup help detect precancerous conditions in your mouth.
4. Dry Mouth: Dry mouth, or xerostomia, is a condition marked by an insufficient production of saliva. This condition can lead to the development of tooth decay, gum disease, or oral infections. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day, avoiding alcohol, caffeine, and tobacco, and using a humidifier at night might help improve your saliva production.
5. Bad Breath: Known as halitosis, bad breath can easily be prevented. Frequent brushing and tongue cleaning, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding tobacco and certain foods known to cause bad breath can help keep your mouth odor-free.
6. Tooth Erosion: This is an irreversible loss of tooth structure due to chemical dissolution by acids not caused by bacterial action. Prevent tooth erosion by drinking acidic drinks, like soft drinks and fruit juices, through a straw to avoid prolonged contact with the enamel and try not to swish these drinks around or hold them in your mouth.
By taking these precautions and visiting your dentist for regular checkups, you can avoid these common dental conditions. Always remember, when it comes to your oral health, practicing prevention is better than seeking a cure. Additionally, be aware of any changes or discomfort in your mouth and visit your dental professional if you have any concerns. Your mouth, teeth, and gums greatly contribute to your overall wellbeing and quality of life, so take good care of them!