Dental issues are very common, and most of us have probably encountered one at some point or another in our lives. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) claims that more than 40% of adults have reported feeling pain in their mouth in the last year. Over 80% of people have at leave one cavity by the age of 34. The good news is that there are various steps that you can take to prevent them. Read on to learn more.
Tooth Decay
When you enjoy sugary and starchy foods, the bacteria in your mouth feel off of them and produce a weak acid as a by-product. This acid attacks the surface of your teeth, leaving you with weakened enamel and ultimately, cavities. Fortunately, if your dentist catches this early on, it can often be treated with a tooth-colored filling or another treatment option. However, if it is left to progress, you could end up needing a root canal or extraction. Here are some ways that you can prevent tooth decay.
- Excellent Oral Hygiene: Remember that you should continue to brush twice and floss every day to remove plaque and food debris.
- Fluoride: The most important thing to look for when choosing toothpaste is that it contains fluoride. This natural mineral helps to protect the tooth enamel.
- See Your Dentist: When you see your dentist, they remove hard-to-reach plaque and tartar. They also check for tooth decay and other issues. You should see your dentist every six months for routine cleanings and checkups.
- Healthy Eating: An occasional sugary treat doesn’t usually do too much damage. However, you should moderate your intake for foods and beverages that are high in sugars, starches, and acids.
- Don’t Smoke: Using tobacco products leads to a variety of dental problems, like tooth decay and gum disease.
Gum Disease
Gum disease is incredibly common. In fact, approximately half of Americans over the age of 30 are suffering from it at one stage or another. Gum disease is an infection of the soft tissue that holds your teeth in place. Common symptoms include bad breath, bleeding gums, painful chewing, gum recession, loose teeth, tooth loss, and bone loss. To keep your gums in good shape, here’s what you should do.
- Discontinue use of tobacco products
- Brush twice a day
- Floss daily
- See your dentist regularly
Oral Cancer
This type of cancer has claimed the lives of many people throughout the United States. In 2016, there were nearly 45,000 new cases of this deadly disease and more than 10,000 deaths. The people who are most likely to develop oral cancer are those who partake in risky activities, like smoking, chewing tobacco, or drinking heavily. Oral Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is also known to cause cancer in the throat. Refrain from risky activities and see your dentist regularly. When it is caught early on, many patients can make a full recovery.
These oral health problems are very common, but they can usually be prevented. By following the tips above, you can set your smile up for success!
About the Author
Dr. Joe Ornelas earned his dental doctorate from Indiana University School of Dentistry. Since then, he has been committed to continuing education. Currently, he is a proud member of numerous professional organizations, including the American Dental Association and the Indiana Dental Association. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call (219) 663-2892.