Your oral health is linked to your overall well-being as well as relationships. Nowadays, many people tend to minimize the importance of oral and dental health. Maintaining good oral health is a step that leads you towards a healthier life, while poor oral hygiene leads to diseases and discomforts. Did you know that in the United States nearly 100 million people do not see a dentist every year? According to the American Dental Associates.
Let’s learn and discuss the best oral habits, practices, general symptoms of these dental issues and common dental problems. Teeth are the gatekeepers that help in our digestion process—from cutting, grinding, chewing to enhancing our smile and even serve as a line of defence. Did you know what WHO says about it? It says that, “oral health is a key indicator of overall health, well-being, and the quality of life.”
Why does oral health matter?
People who do not maintain their oral hygiene may have to face cavities and gum diseases, sometimes they can also be linked to heart disease, cancer and diabetes. But do you know how? The bacteria present in your mouth enters your bloodstream that causes inflammation and damage to other parts of your body.
Common dental and oral problems
- Cavities: Tiny holes in teeths that are caused by plaque buildup on teeth which slowly destroys enamel. If they are left untreated then it can lead to pain, infections and even tooth loss.
- Gum disease: It begins with the inflammation of the guns also known as gingivitis and can proceed into severe infection such as periodontitis which further leads to tooth loss. Adults aged 30 years or older in the U.S. had gum disease between 2009-2014 based on a 6-year national survey.
- Tooth sensitivity: Do you feel sensitivity to hot or cold food or drink? If so, then you might be having sensitivity of the teeth. It is caused by worn tooth enamel or exposing nerve endings. It can be a result of over-brushing kr gum recession.
- Bad breath: When bad odour comes from your mouth in front of someone, isn’t it embarrassing? It generally happens by eating foods like onion or garlic and also if you’re having poor dental hygiene and dehydration.
- Tooth loss: The main reasons that cause loosing of teeth involve—receding gums erosion of enamel, decay or any injury. It not only gives difficulty in speaking chewing but also affects your appearance.
- Oral Cancer: Nearly 58,500 Americans would be diagnosed with oral cancer this year according to the Oral Cancer Foundation (OFC). These oral cancers include cancers of the guns, tongue, lips and cheeks.
According to the Lancet report an estimate of 3.5 billion people are affected by these oral diseases.
How to keep your smile healthy and happy
It isn’t complicated to maintain a healthy mouth but it does require maintenance and proper care. Here are some tips:
Brush properly: You should brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time. Use a brush that is soft and toothpaste that contains fluoride. Clean your tongue as well.
Floss daily: Flossing daily removes plaque and food particles that aren’t removed by the toothbrush.
Drink water: After regular intervals, drink enough water (fluoridated water) to keep your mouth moist.
Use mouthwash: Using of antibacterial mouthwash can help you in reducing plaque in your mouth while keeping your breath fresh.
Have a balanced diet: Eat healthy and balanced diet such as fresh fruits and vegetables which contain all the essential vitamins and nutrients like calcium and phosphorus that are required for strengthening of your teeth.
Visit dentist regularly: Remember to visit a dentist twice a year without any fail. Do routine checkups to ensure overall protection of your mouth.
Causes of dental and oral diseases
Dental and oral disease don’t appear overnight but they develop slowly by combination of many reasons such as poor hygiene, medical conditions, lifestyle habits and other such factors. Below are some of the major causes:
- Smoking and tobacco use
- High sugar and acidic diet
- Dry mouth
- Genetic factors
- Poor oral hygiene
- Frequent vomiting
- Diabetes
- Certain infections like HIV and AIDS
- Grinding and clenching teeth
- Poor alignment and crooked teeth
When to See a Dentist?
You should contact your dentists if you’re experiencing any of the above-mentioned diseases or issues related to the mouth or tooth, including toothache , sensitivity or swollen gums. Even if you’ve received treatments like fillings or orthodontics, then also you must visit a doctor regularly to ensure everything is fine. People should visit the dentist near them regularly instead of waiting until they experience extreme pain. Here are some symptoms which may seek medical assistance:
- Persistent toothache or sensitivity
- Bleeding or swollen gums
- Loose teeth or receding gums
- Chronic bad breath
- Difficulty chewing or jaw pain
Your Smile Deserves the Best Care
Brushing and flossing can help you to get rid of most of the plaque but sometimes it is difficult to remove from the deeper parts and hence you may require to do cleaning by a professional dentist. Having good oral and dental health also uplifts the quality of life while poor oral health leads to low self-esteem, issues with speech or nutrition. Remember, even if you don’t have any visible signs or issues then also you must follow a dental checkup every six months, to maintain an optimal oral health.
If you want to keep your teeth and gums healthy or are experiencing any dental issues, it’s time to look for a “dentist near me“. Take the time and find a professional who understands your needs and can help you in the best possible way. So, don’t wait , schedule your checkup, grab your toothbrush and take the first step toward a healthier happy life.