Your oral health is a crucial aspect of your well-being, and its significance cannot be overstated. Your smile isn’t just an aesthetic tool used for making first impressions, nor is it only a practical tool used for eating—it also helps to regulate your body’s overall wellness! Unfortunately, there are many common oral health conditions out there that threaten its health; but the good news is that many of these issues are also preventable or treatable. Continue reading below to learn more from your dentist about three of the most common oral health conditions out there and why it’s in your best interest to avoid them entirely!
1. Cavities (Tooth Decay)
Tooth decay is one of the most prevalent oral health problems worldwide, and most people will have at least one cavity by their 18th birthday. Cavities are caused by the breakdown of the tooth enamel, and frequently eating and drinking foods that are high in sugars and starches is a surefire way to end up with one—as is not practicing great oral hygiene! That said, while tooth decay is largely preventable, it can be treated through various means including fillings or dental restorations in serious cases.
2. Gum (Periodontal) Disease
Gum disease affects the tissues surrounding the teeth; it can lead to red, swollen, and bleeding gums, but if left to progress without professional intervention, more serious issues can pop up such as gum recession, or even total tooth loss. To make matters worse, gum disease can also lead to systematic health issues like heightened blood pressure, heart disease, and even diabetes. It’s estimated that about 4 in 10 adults over the age of 30 have some form of gum disease, although it can affect patients of any age. Fortunately, early detection enables dentists to initiate proper treatments and preventive measures; in any case, routine oral hygiene can greatly mitigate it!
3. Oral Cancer
Oral cancer includes cancers of the lips, cheeks, tongue, neck, and other oral structures, and believe it or not, it’s one of the deadliest forms of cancer out there. In the US in 2016, there were almost 50,000 new cases of oral cancer diagnosed with around 10,000 of them being fatal. High-risk behaviors include smoking and using tobacco; however, it is also chronically poor oral hygiene that often causes it. Dentists are trained to recognize the signs of oral cancer during routine examinations—which is why regular dental visits are paramount when it comes to enhancing the chances of early detection and successful treatment.
A healthy smile is not just a reflection of good oral hygiene, but also a cornerstone of overall well-being! By safeguarding yours from these conditions, you can ensure that it looks, feels, and functions beautifully for many years to come.
About the Practice
The team at Jupiter Family Dental has proudly served patients and families in the Richardson, TX area for several years, and they look forward to assisting you and your loved ones with achieving healthy, radiant smiles! If you have any questions about the blog or you need to schedule your next dental visit, feel free to contact the practice online or by phone for assistance. Telephone: (214) 432-1133.
