Dental issues and mouth problems can be very painful, but many of the most common oral health problems can be prevented. Individuals are at a lower risk of issues such as tooth decay, oral cancers, gum disease, and bad breath when they take proper care of their teeth and follow a healthy lifestyle. Brushing your teeth and tongue twice a day, flossing daily, eating properly, and regular dental check-ups and cleanings are essential steps in preventing dental problems.
Tooth Decay: Tooth decay and cavities are among the most common health problems in the United States. According to studies, more than 1 in 4 adults have untreated tooth decay. Tooth decay occurs when plaque combines with the sugars and starches in your food to produce an acid that attacks tooth enamel. Cavities can also be caused by dry mouth from medications or old age.
It is essential to brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and go to your biannual dental cleanings and check-ups to prevent cavities.
Oral Cancers: Oral cancers account for approximately 3 percent of all cancers in the United States. They are most common in adults over age 40, with heavy drinkers and smokers at an increased risk. When detected and treated early in precancerous stages, there is a high probability the precancer will not develop into oral cancer. Because early detection is key to surviving oral cancer, we perform regular oral cancer screenings at Chestnut Ridge Dental to ensure early detection.
Other cancers besides oral cancer can affect an individual’s oral health. Cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy may suffer from issues such as mouth ulcers, impaired taste, and dry mouth.
Gum Disease: Periodontal disease, also called gum disease, is caused primarily by plaque, but other factors such as hormonal changes or a family history of the disease can also contribute. This infection of the gums surrounding the teeth can lead to irritation and even tooth loss.
Bad Breath: Experts estimate that over 25% of Americans suffer from chronic bad breath, also know as halitosis. Bad breath can be caused when an individual has poor dental hygiene, allowing food particles to remain in their mouth when they do not regularly brush their teeth and tongue. Halitosis can also be caused by certain medications, dry mouth, and various types of diseases.
The first step in combatting bad breath is to review your oral hygiene habits and make necessary changes. Brushing your teeth and tongue after eating, drinking plenty of water, and using dental floss are great steps to take to improve your oral hygiene and eliminate bad breath.
Contact Chestnut Ridge Dental today to schedule your dental cleaning and exam and discuss any further oral health problems you may be experiencing. To schedule an appointment, call us at (201) 391-4466.
