Everyone on Earth has a mouth, so everyone needs proper oral hygiene to stay healthy. Unfortunately, there are more people in the world who own a smartphone than those who own a toothbrush. Oral health problems are among the most widespread health concerns among the whole human population, which is especially sad since they can almost always be prevented with the right care. Here’s a brief look at some of the most widespread oral health conditions on Earth.
Don’t Let Your Mouth Fall Prey to Tooth Decay
If there’s one thing a brief look around a supermarket will tell you, it’s that humans love sugar. This is because this sweet substance is full of chemical energy that biological systems can easily absorb. Unfortunately, harmful oral bacteria love the stuff for the same reason, and consuming it too frequently and without proper oral hygiene can allow these germs to multiply rapidly and infect the teeth. They begin by eating their way into the enamel layer, but if allowed to progress, they will bore through the dentin layer to the pulp, causing a nasty toothache and eventually tooth loss.
Don’t Let Your Oral Tissues Be Seized by Gum Disease
Gum disease is an insidious little menace that starts out almost imperceptibly small, but it can cause permanent damage like gum recession, jawbone erosion, tooth loss, and even dangerous secondary infections like sepsis or pneumonia if allowed to progress. Gum disease begins as gingivitis, or inflammation of the gums around the teeth, and it can usually be reversed with improved oral hygiene at this stage. However, if gingivitis is allowed to progress to the periodontitis stage, treatment from a qualified dentist is necessary to mitigate the damage.
Stick Close to Your Dental Floss to Prevent Tooth Loss
Tooth loss is a significant oral health issue that can have negative consequences for a person’s diet, speech, self-confidence, and overall health. The loss of teeth can make it more difficult to chew healthy foods like raw vegetables or tougher cuts of meat while also hindering a person’s ability to form certain sounds and words during speech. The exclusion of these healthy foods from one’s diet can increase the risk of malnutrition, and many people with tooth loss have a hard time socializing because they are afraid of showing their smiles.
The best way to prevent these issues is to practice excellent oral hygiene while limiting your sugar intake and seeing your dentist for regular exams and cleanings. With the proper care, you can keep your mouth free of these unfortunately common oral health issues.
About the Author
Dr. Renee Corbitt earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio Dental School and has completed many continuing education courses to stay abreast of the latest developments in the dental field. She is a proud member of the Academy of General Dentistry, the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, and the American Academy of Orofacial Pain. Her office in Fort Worth, TX offers general, restorative, and pediatric dentistry. To schedule an appointment, contact her practice online or dial (817) 294-8821.