What Is Oral Health?

Oral health refers to the well-being of the mouth, teeth, gums, and the entire oral-facial system that allows us to smile, speak and chew. It can help prevent tooth decay, bad breath, and gum disease. Maintaining oral health can also help your overall physical and psychological well-being as you age.

Common Dental Problems

We all want healthy teeth and gums for beautiful teeth, fresh breath, and a winning smile. However, some dental problems may affect your oral health, which includes:

Cavities and Tooth Decay

Tooth decay occurs when bacteria form a film on the surface of the teeth called plaque. Bacteria produce acids from sugary food that destroy and permanently damage the tooth’s enamel or outer layer.

Periodontal Disease (Gum Disease)

It is a bacterial infection caused by plaque accumulation. Some of its common symptoms include red swollen gums that bleed easily. Not only can it lead to cavities, but it can cause bone loss around your teeth causing tooth loss.

Bad Breath

Some common causes of bad breath include poor oral hygiene, infection, dry mouth, medications, cancer, and even acid reflux which can produce chemicals in your body that cause the bad odor.

Infections

Bacteria can cause cavities leading to infections leading to tooth tissue,  tooth nerve damage, and the formation of abscesses.

A severe toothache that is chronic is a sure sign of an infection. The infection causes pain when biting and chewing; therefore, the area affected becomes sensitive to hot and cold foods and beverages.

Broken or Cracked Teeth

Cracked or broken teeth are among the most common dental problems, and they are frequently caused by injury, chewing tough foods, piercings around the mouth, and teeth grinding while sleeping.

Oral Cancer

Cancer of the mouth is a serious and common dental condition that affects millions of people worldwide. The major risks of oral cancer include alcohol consumption, smoking, and chewing tobacco. Most dental cancers begin as a growth or lump in your mouth and develop if left untreated.

Teeth Grinding

Grinding mostly occurs while sleeping but can also occur while awake. It can damage your teeth, give you jaw pain, and even cause headaches and earaches. Some conditions that may cause grinding or clenching are stress and poor occlusion (bad bite). 

How Can Oral Health Problems Be Avoided?

You can keep your teeth healthy for the rest of your life with these tips:

• Making use of fluoride toothpaste
• Visit our North Ridgeville, OH, dental practice at least twice a year
• Flossing is just as important as brushing
• You should refrain from using any tobacco products
• Consume alcoholic beverages in moderation
• Drink more water
• Eat fruits and vegetables