Having a good dentist on your side is incredibly important for your oral health, but any professional will tell you that the most important things that you’ll do for your teeth will take place outside the dentists’ office.
That’s why it’s important for people to have a thorough understanding of the most common oral health problems they could face, as well as what they can do to mitigate them. If you’re curious, here are some of the conditions that you’ll need to watch out for.
Tooth Decay
It can be easy to think that tooth decay is something that happens naturally, but it’s actually a consequence of a bacterial infection that has to be introduced to the mouth at some point in life. It’s just that this condition is so common, and so contagious, that it might as well be unavoidable; most people will have these bacteria in their mouth by the time they reach childhood.
These bacteria consume sugars and secrete acids. Over time, this leads to corrosion of the teeth, i.e. cavities. In order to keep cavities at bay, it’s important to keep up with thorough dental hygiene to slow the growth of these bacteria.
Gum Disease
Bacteria don’t just affect the teeth— they can also infect the gum tissue, leading to periodontal disease. It’s estimated that around 50% of adults have gum disease to some extent, but many may not even realize it. This is because gum disease tends to start out as mild redness or swelling, becoming more serious as it proceeds. Eventually this illness could begin to attack the bone tissue, causing the teeth to come loose. Yet another reason to brush frequently, floss often, and see your dentist for biannual cleanings.
Oral Cancer
Oral cancer is the 13th most common form of cancer worldwide. While it’s most common in older men, people of any age and gender can still contract the condition, particularly if they use tobacco or abuse alcohol.
Cutting back on these risk factors is the best way to prevent the development of oral cancers. You should also see your dentist for regular checkups so that they can check for the signs of the condition and talk to them immediately if you notice lumps on your neck or mouth sores that do not seem to heal.
About Our Practice
At River Station Family Dentistry, we’re proud to have become an institution in our community; over the past 30 years, we have become the go-to place for people across Montpelier to perfect their oral health. We combine the latest in dental technology with compassionate customer care in order to ensure that you’re going to get the smile you’ve always wanted without any hassle.
If you have any questions about your oral health, we can be reached at our website or by phone at (802) 223-2244.