Taking care of your smile involves more than just achieving bright, white teeth—there’s a lot to consider when it comes to maintaining overall oral health. Oral health issues are common in both adults and children, but certain problems tend to occur more frequently. Understanding these common concerns and how to prevent them is key to preserving a healthy, radiant smile. Keep reading to arm yourself with the knowledge needed to keep your mouth in top shape for years to come.
Cavities
Cavities occur when plaque on teeth turns sugars from food into acids that damage teeth over time. More than half of kids aged 6 to 8 and teens aged 12 to 19 have had cavities, and about 25% of adults aged 20 to 64 have untreated cavities. Over 90% of adults have had at least one cavity.
Poor brushing, a diet high in sugar, and insufficient fluoride increase the risk of cavities. If not treated, cavities can lead to pain, tooth loss, and infection. Good oral care habits can help prevent cavities in both kids and adults.
Periodontal (Gum) Disease
Periodontal disease affects the gums and tissues supporting your teeth, causing symptoms like bleeding, swollen gums, pain, and bad breath. In severe cases, gums can pull away from teeth, leading to loose teeth or tooth loss. Around 19% of adults worldwide have severe periodontal disease, with poor oral hygiene and tobacco use being major risk factors.
Between 2009 and 2014, about 40% of adults aged 30 or older had gum disease. Risk factors include infections, inflammation, chronic conditions like diabetes, a weak immune system, poor oral hygiene, family history, and smoking. Without treatment, gum disease can cause loose teeth and potentially require tooth removal.
Oral Cancer
Oral cancer, which includes cancers of the mouth, lips, and throat, is the 13th most common cancer globally. In the US, nearly 45,000 new cases of oral cavity and pharynx cancer were reported in 2016, resulting in over 10,000 deaths. By 2020, there were about 377,713 new cases and 177,757 deaths from oral cancer.
Oral cancer predominantly affects older men and tends to be more severe in men than in women. Preventing oral cancer involves avoiding risky behaviors like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Early detection is key to improving survival rates.
Practicing excellent oral hygiene and scheduling regular dental visits are crucial for preventing and identifying oral health problems like gum disease, cavities, and oral cancer. Taking these proactive steps helps protect your smile and supports your overall health for the long term.
About the Practice
At Hill Avenue Dental, our team is dedicated to helping our patients achieve and maintain their vibrant, beautiful smiles for long-lasting results. We do this through offering exceptional dental care you can count on. Our experienced team focuses on ensuring your smile stays bright by offering expert advice on preventing common dental problems. To discover more about our full range of services or to schedule an appointment, please call us at (715) 392-5161 or visit our website.