When we say oral health, we talk about teeth, gums, and tongue health. They all require special care to avoid dental issues. Taking care of your dental health can help you visit a dental clinic much less than a person who ignores dental health. This article explains the nature of mouth health, its importance, and the common dental problems.
What is Oral Health and Why is it Important?
It includes all parts inside your mouth, teeth, tongue, and gum. Taking good care of your dental health not only prevents dental diseases but also other diseases related to other parts of the body. Research suggests that there is a connection between oral health and overall health. Oral bacteria may lead to or may be a sign of bigger health problems as they can spread to your bloodstream. Losing even a single tooth can be dangerous for the remaining teeth, causing them to shift, and increasing the risk of further decay and potential bone loss. Healthy mouths equals a healthy body and vice versa. Also, good oral health comes with significant benefits:
- Strong teeth and pretty smile: Taking care of your teeth prevents tooth loss even in old age. Research suggests that tooth loss is a sign of a shorter life span. It can even change your facial structure as you get older. If you are someone who brushes and flosses their teeth twice a day and visits their dentist for regular checkups, you are likely to keep all your teeth and have a pretty smile even when you are 70 years old.
- Fewer diseases: If you have a chronic disease like diabetes, osteoporosis, or HIV/AIDS, taking care of your teeth is especially crucial. Diabetes, for example, reduces your body’s resistance to infection and you become more likely to have gum disease. Good oral health care helps you protect from such diseases.
- High self-esteem: People with healthy teeth are more likely to have high self-esteem compared to people who have dental problems. People with poor dental health state that they feel self-conscious about their appearance when they smile.
What are The Common Oral Health Problems?
Here are the most common reasons why people consult a dentist:
1. Bleeding gums
Bleeding gums can be a sign of gum disease. The reasons that cause bleeding gums include plaques and bacteria under the gum line. If untreated, it can lead to major dental problems such as tooth loss, shifting, or loosing. If you have bleeding gums, you should visit your dentist to treat the underlying issue.
2. Tooth decay
Although many people ignore tooth decay, it is a serious dental problem. Because of the decay on the tooth surface, all the sugars and acids from foods and drinks you consume destroy the tooth gradually. If you don’t get your teeth cleaned by a dentist and continue to consume foods and drinks high in sugar and acid, it can lead to pain, infection, and even tooth loss.
3. Bad breath
Bad breath is a very common oral problem. It can make you feel embarrassed and unconfident when you speak. There are many reasons for bad breath such as cavities, gum disease, dry mouth, and bacteria in the mouth or tongue. Though people use mouthwash, it is only a temporary solution as it masks the bad odor. You should visit your dentist if you have chronic bad breath.
4. Tooth abscess and infection
A tooth abscess occurs when the soft tissue inside the root canal dies. This allows bacteria to enter the pulp and start a root infection. As a result, a pocket of pus occurs around the root, and that creates the tooth abscess. Common signs of tooth abscess are toothache, sensitivity, and bad breath. If you suspect of tooth abscess, visit your dentist immediately.
5. Gingivitis
Gingivitis is a type of gum disease that causes the inflammation of the gums. Usually, it is caused by the built-up plaque on your teeth because of inefficient brushing and flossing. Gum disease can make your gums swell and even bleed over time. If not treated, it can lead to periodontitis.
What to Pay Attention to for Oral Health?
If you have any of the following signs, you may have dental issues and need to see a dentist for examination.
- Ulcers, sores, or tender areas in the mouth that won’t heal after a week or two.
- Bleeding or swollen gums after brushing or flossing.
- Chronic bad breath.
- Sudden sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures or beverages.
- Pain or toothache.
- Loose teeth.
- Receding gums.
- Pain with chewing or biting.
- Swelling of the face and cheek.
- Clicking jaw.
- Cracked or broken teeth.
- Frequent dry mouth.
How Should Someone Eat for Oral Health?
Your nutrition is as important as your dental care. Your food choices and eating habits contribute to the battle with cavities and tooth decay.
Minerals such as calcium and phosphorus help protect the tooth enamel which is the outer layer of the tooth. That’s why, eating foods high in minerals such as cheese, milk, plain yogurt, and leafy greens helps your tooth health.
Eating fruits and vegetables is also important as they contain high water and fiber which balance the sugar and help clean the tooth. They also stimulate saliva in the mouth which helps to clean acids and food particles from the tooth. Most fruits contain Vitamin C which helps heal and improve the gingiva.
When it comes to drinks, water is the best choice for your teeth. It cleans your mouth and prevents dry mouth which can also lead to bad breath. Dentists recommend avoiding acidic drinks as they can cause cavities and decay in your teeth.
