Teeth, with the role they play for every one of us, are significantly important. A bi-annual date with your dentist not only ensures you have a bright and healthy smile, but also help you stay on top of your general health too. Research shows that infection in the mouth can travel via the bloodstream to organs and the immune system. Poor oral hygiene and tooth decay have also been linked to a number of illnesses, including heart and respiratory diseases.
Keep them teeth clean and healthy by looking out for common dental health issues:
- Cavities – Indulging in too much sugar on a daily basis and neglecting oral health can lead to cavities. Not only this, overload on acidic foods or drinks might also contribute to dental erosion. Get your cavities filled because if left untreated, they can spread to other teeth, resulting in nerve pain and affecting your ability to eat.
- Bad Breath – Bad breath is caused by bacteria that linger in your mouth, producing volatile, foul-smelling sulfur compounds. The more bacteria you have in your mouth, the worse your breath would be. The three main culprits of bad breath are:
a) Postnasal drip (as a result of excessive mucus from your nose accumulating in the back of your throat)
b) Gum disease
c) An underlying gut problem, such as dysbiosis
To fix bad breath, it’s advisable to clean your tongue and floss daily along with brushing your teeth.
- Gum Disease – If you witness your gums to be red and swollen along with blood spots in your sink after you brush, then you might be suffering from periodontal or gum disease. If left untreated, it may even lead to tooth loss due to the destruction of the tissue that surrounds your teeth. Along with good oral practice, proactive prevention is the key to combat gum disease.
- Cold Sores and Cankers – Though these are minor problems and have a short shelf life, however, if you see a lesion changing size or shape and it persists for more than two to three weeks, then you should consult your dentist. In certain cases, these may also lead to oral cancer. So in addition to maintaining a good oral hygiene, ensure you are getting your teeth checked at your dentist on a regular basis.
