Have you ever had mildly swollen gums when you were younger? Are you currently struggling with a toothache? You aren’t the only one. Most people have experienced at least one oral health problem in their life. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 80% of people will have had at least one cavity by the time they’re 34. Fortunately, many of these common dental concerns are avoidable. Read on to learn about three oral health issues and how you can significantly reduce your risks.
Dental Decay
The natural bacteria in your mouth can create acid byproducts, which can then attack your tooth enamel and increase your chances of developing cavities. By visiting your dentist early on, they can typically treat the condition with tooth-colored fillings or some other procedure. If left untreated for too long, you may end up requiring a root canal or extraction. To prevent this, consider implementing the following measures:
- Practice oral hygiene – Brush twice a day, floss at least once daily, and rinse with mouthwash often to remove debris, food particles, and plaque from your smile.
- Visit your dentist – Scheduling dental checkups and cleanings every six months can both help maintain healthy teeth and catch oral problems ahead of time.
- Quit smoking – Using tobacco products can heighten your risk of developing issues like decay, gum disease, and even oral cancer.
- Maintain a healthy diet – Avoiding foods and drinks that are high in sugar, starches, and acids will help reduce your chances of dental decay.
Gum Disease
Roughly half of the adults in the U.S. over age 30 have struggled with periodontal disease to some degree. This condition is an infection of the tissue that helps hold your teeth in position. Common symptoms of gum disease involve bad breath (halitosis), painful chewing, bleeding gums, loose teeth, gum recession, and even tooth loss. To avoid these complications, be sure to:
- Floss your teeth and below the gum line once a day or after every meal.
- Brush twice daily, especially around the base of your smile.
- Stop smoking and try alternative habits, like chewing sugar-free gum.
- See your dentist bi-annually for checkups and cleanings.
Oral Cancer
People with a higher risk of developing this condition include those who smoke/chew tobacco and drink excessive amounts of alcohol. Oral Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is another factor that can cause cancer in the throat. The best way to prevent this issue is through early detection. By visiting your dentist routinely, they can detect abnormalities that may indicate oral cancer and address them before they can advance.
Even with a busy schedule, make sure to take the time to schedule regular dental appointments. Keep these few tips in mind, and you’ll be more likely to preserve a strong and healthy smile!
About the Author
Dr. Monisha Khanna earned her dental doctorate from the State University of New York at Buffalo. She also consistently seeks continuing education to refine her skills and is a member of various organizations, such as the American Dental Association. She provides a wide range of high-quality treatments, including dental checkups/cleanings, fillings, periodontal therapy, and oral cancer screenings. If you’d like to request an appointment, visit her website or call 540-432-6616.