Few individuals are bestowed with perfect oral health throughout their lives. Cavities, abscessed teeth, and even gum disease are just a few common complications. Still, it is necessary to do your best to prevent dental diseases as poor oral health often leads to other health issues.
Cavities are perhaps the most typical problem that dentists treat. Cavities are caused by harmful bacteria that feed on the sugars and starches that collect in your mouth. They convert these sugars and starches into a sticky, clear substance called plaque. Plaque starts sticking to your teeth as soon as 20 minutes after you have finished eating. Plaque is acidic, and it weakens the dental enamel. Ultimately, the acids create holes in your teeth, and a cavity is formed. It is crucial to prevent cavities by regular brushing and flossing, as well as eating a healthy diet that is low in sugar. If left untreated, cavities can result in tooth loss, which affects your ability to eat and speak. Cavities can also cause dangerous abscesses.
Abscessed teeth are one of the most dangerous dental complications. An abscess is a pocket of infection that often develops in the gums or under the tooth. An abscess will appear as a blister on the gums. If the abscess bursts, the bacteria can enter the bloodstream and cause problems with the heart, lungs, or even the brain. In severe cases, a burst abscess can lead to death. Like cavities, your best defense against abscesses is proper brushing and flossing and avoiding foods that are high in sugar. Brushing and flossing rids the mouth of the harmful bacteria that can cause abscesses, and eating a diet low in sugar removes the food source of the bacteria.
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is another preventable dental complication. Gum disease and its more serious form, periodontitis, are caused by an accumulation of plaque. When left untreated, plaque turns into tartar. Tartar is a hard, yellowish substance that can only be removed by a dental professional. Once tartar gathers, it affects the gums by irritating them and allowing bacteria and toxins to enter the gums below the teeth. Gum disease causes the gums to become red, inflamed, and irritated. Over time, gum disease causes tooth loss and damage to the connective tissues under the gums. This affects your overall health.
Aside from the direct impacts on oral health, dental diseases can also affect your mental health. When you are in constant pain from a dental disease, depression and anxiety can result. In addition, when you have lost teeth or have severely discolored teeth due to tartar accumulation, your self-esteem can suffer.
While brushing and flossing, along with regular dental cleanings, may not prevent every cavity or infection, they can help prevent the majority of dental issues that you will experience. Adults should see a dentist at least once a year, or more frequently if they are vulnerable to cavities or other dental problems.
Author Resource:
Dr. Zadeh, Beverly Hills dentist , can provide you with more information about maintaining healthy teeth. Click here to learn more about preventing oral problems.
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