Find Out Common Types of Dental Diseases
1. Tooth Decay (Cavities)
What is Tooth Decay?
Causes and Symptoms
Causes of Tooth decay are: poor hygiene of the oral cavity, sweet foods and drinks, and absence of fluoride in the tooth. Symptoms include:
- Pain or sensitivity in the mouth especially while taking hot, cold, or sweet food and drinks.
- Visible holes or pits in the teeth
- Discoloration, including dark spots on the teeth.
- Bad breath or foul taste in the mouth
Prevention
- Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Brush daily, and floss between.
- Minimize sugary foods and drinks.
- Regular cleaning and checkup visits to your dentist.
2. Gum Disease (Periodontal Disease)
What is Gum Disease?
It is an infection of the tissues that support and surround the teeth. Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease, starting with plaque buildup. If left untreated, it can progress into more aggressive forms known as periodontitis and can eventually lead to a loss of one’s teeth.
Causes and Symptoms
Poor hygiene is the main cause of periodontal disease, leading to the formation of plaque and tartar. Other secondary risk factors include smoking, genetics, diabetes, and specific medications. The symptoms of periodontal disease are:
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Bad breath, or persistent bad taste
- Loose teeth or receding gums
- Painful mastication
Prevention
- Brush your teeth regularly, twice a day, and floss daily
- Regular dental checkups and cleanings
- Quit smoking and avoid tobacco products
- Maintain healthy eating habits, and manage any underlying health conditions such as diabetes
3. Tooth Sensitivity
What is Tooth Sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity is a condition characterized by pain or discomfort when the teeth are stimulated by hot, cold, sweet, or acidic substances. The pain usually results from the wearing away of enamel on the teeth and exposing the dentin underneath.
Causes and Symptoms
Sensitivity of the teeth usually results from worn enamel, which is associated with over-brushing, grinding your teeth, or acidic foods and drinks. Other causes include gum recession, cracked teeth, or dental work that exposes the inner layers of the tooth. Associated symptoms with this sensitivity are-
- Sharp pain when eating or drinking hot or cold substances
- Pain while eating sweet or sour food
- Pain while brushing or flossing
Prevention
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush softly
- Avoid acidic food and drinks
- Teeth paste for sensitive teeth.
4. Oral Cancer
What is Oral Cancer?
The cancers in the mouth, lips, tongue, gums, and throat are classified as oral cancer. Unless oral cancers are recognized or diagnosed in time, they can be fatal too. Although oral cancer is not a disease caused by an identifiable factor, its occurrence is largely related to the use of tobacco, alcoholism, and human papillomavirus infection.
Causes and Symptoms
Other kinds of risk factors include long-time exposures to tobacco and alcohol which lead to oral cancer. Some persons have their families who have experienced cancer in the past, while others may have certain forms of HPV. Symptoms include
- sores or ulcers in the mouth that do not heal.
- Pain or numbness in the mouth or throat, which persists
- Chewing or swallowing problems
- Swelling in the mouth, neck, or throat
- Unexplained weight loss
Prevention
- Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol consumption
- Practice good oral hygiene
- Get vaccinated against HPV
5. Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)
What is Bruxism?
Causes and Symptoms
Bruxism can be caused by stress, anxiety, an abnormal bite, or misaligned teeth. Symptoms include:
- Worn-down teeth
- Jaw pain or headaches, especially in the morning
- Tooth Sensitivity
- Clicking or popping in the jaw joint
Prevention
- Reduce stress through relaxation techniques
- Wear a mouthguard at night to protect your teeth
- Address any dental misalignments or bite issues with the help of your dentist
- Avoid stimulants like caffeine close to bedtime
6. Bad Breath (Halitosis)
What is Halitosis?
Bad Breath or Halitosis is a condition where a long-lasting unpleasant odor emanates from the mouth. It is usually caused by poor oral hygiene, but it may also be an indication of an underlying health problem.
Causes and Symptoms
Bad breath is caused by bacteria that accumulate on the tongue, teeth, and gums, or by dry mouth. It can also be linked to gum disease, tooth decay, or digestive issues. Symptoms include:
- Persistent foul odor from the mouth
- A dry mouth or a coated tongue
- A metallic or sour taste in the mouth
Prevention
- Brush your teeth and tongue regularly
- Floss daily to remove food particles and plaque
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated
- Visit your dentist regularly to check for any underlying dental issues
7. Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
What is Dry Mouth?
Dry mouth, or xerostomia, occurs when the salivary glands do not produce enough saliva to keep the mouth moist. This can lead to difficulty speaking, swallowing, and tasting food, as well as an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Causes and Symptoms
Dry mouth is often caused by dehydration, certain medications, smoking, or health conditions like diabetes. Symptoms include:
- A dry, sticky feeling in the mouth
- Difficulty swallowing or speaking
- A dry or sore throat
- Increased tooth decay
Prevention
- Drink lots of water to keep hydrating
- Saliva substitutes or oral moisturizers
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine, since they dehydrate the mouth.
- Discuss the need to treat the underlying cause of dry mouth with your dentist
Conclusion: Preventing Dental Diseases
Most dental diseases can be prevented if good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups are practiced. Prevention measures include brushing and flossing every day, staying away from sugary food, and regular visits to your dentist. Prevent most dental conditions if you have dental diseases with these common symptoms. If you start suffering from some of these factors, dental disease has to be treated in time so that there won’t be worse problems with oral health. Keep your dazzling smile healthy for years on end with Castle Hills Dentistry. Schedule your appointment today and learn how to keep those teeth and gums healthy!
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