Our mouth and teeth are some of the most useful and underrated tools that we are born with. We do most of our communication with our mouths, and teeth help us grind up the food we need to keep our bodies living. When things go wrong in the mouth, it can lead to potentially serious consequences left unaddressed. Today, we’re going to go through a few of the oral health issues that need to be addressed quickly to prevent serious problems. Grab your toothbrush, and let’s get started!
Plaque
Plaque is a sticky, colorless film that bacteria form on teeth. It’s made up of saliva, food particles, and bacteria. The bacteria in plaque cause your teeth to decay and can lead to gum disease if it’s not removed regularly. Plaque can build up on the surfaces of your teeth near the gum line, in between teeth and on the back of your tongue. If plaque is not removed with regular brushing and flossing it can harden into a substance called tartar, which can only be removed by professional dental cleaning. Regular brushing and flossing help to remove plaque before it has a chance to build up and cause damage to your teeth.
Crooked Teeth
Crooked teeth can have a major impact on your overall health, as they can cause wear and pressure on your jaw, leading to pain and discomfort. When teeth are crowded together, they can be difficult to clean properly, resulting in plaque and tartar buildup which can further contribute to tooth decay. Studies have also shown that crooked teeth can lead to greater risk of gum disease. Orthodontic treatments such as braces or Invisalign can help to straighten teeth and align the bite.
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease, otherwise referred to as gum disease, is caused by the accumulation of plaque and tartar on teeth which can eventually lead to infections affecting gums and tissues that support teeth. If left untreated, this condition may result in tooth loss and more severe damage throughout your body. Keep an eye out for redness, swelling or bleeding when brushing your pearly whites – all signs that you might be at risk! To reduce the possibility of periodontal issues appearing, it’s critical to schedule regular dental cleanings while consistently taking care of cleaning with a brush & floss regimen between visits.
The importance of taking care of our oral health cannot be understated. Taking steps to maintain a healthy mouth can prevent poor dental habits and costly dental procedures in the future. While it is best to prevent any issues from arising, if they do you should address them as soon as possible. With preventive care and regular maintenance, you can keep your mouth healthy and save money over time!
Check out this article on health problems that occur when you don’t get enough sleep!
