You may be shocked to hear that over $120 billion are spent on dental treatments each year in the United States alone. Moreover, studies estimate that more than 80% of people will develop at least one cavity prior to the age of 34. This means that if you’ve struggled with oral issues, or are currently dealing with one, you’re far from alone. There are plenty of different problems that people face with their teeth and gums, but your Phoenix dentist has a list of the top three most common ones and what you can do to avoid them.
Steer Clear of These Common Oral Issues
Taking care of your teeth is one of the most important things you can do for your overall health. In addition to helping you chew and speak, your teeth and gums also protect the rest of your body from harmful, disease-causing germs and bacteria. Here are three of the most common oral problems that people face, and ways that you can avoid them:
#1: Cavities
If you’ve over the age of 25, there’s a good chance you’ve probably had to have at least one cavity filled in your lifetime. Tooth decay is extremely common among children because they tend to consume more sugar and be less attentive to oral hygiene. If left untreated, cavities can cause abscesses in teeth that can lead to the need for root canals or removal.
Prevention: Developing simple oral hygiene habits, such as flossing and brushing daily, is the primary way to reduce the risk of tooth decay. It’s also important to see your dentist regularly so that they can deep clean your teeth and remove plaque build-up that your toothbrush can’t.
#2: Gum Disease
An alarming 4 out of 10 adults suffer from gum disease! This is a serious condition, which left untreated, can eventually cause jawbone deterioration. Gum disease has also been linked to other health conditions such as pregnancy issues, stroke, and diabetes. It is caused by poor oral hygiene and infection of the gums that causes swelling and eventually recession, leaving the soft tissues vulnerable to bacteria.
Prevention: Floss daily and be sure to see a dentist if your gums appear to be red, swollen, or you see excessive blood during regular oral maintenance.
#3: Oral Cancer
This can be a fatal condition if not treated, and it can develop anywhere around the soft tissue of the mouth or in the throat. Fortunately, the survival rate for oral cancer has increased significantly in the last several decades. The key to this increase is early detection.
Prevention: Seeing your dentist regularly for checkups is crucial. Every time you go, even if it is just for a routine cleaning, your dentist does an oral cancer screening of your mouth and throat to make sure nothing looks abnormal. It’s also best to avoid smoking or using tobacco products, as these have been directly linked to oral cancer.
Oral problems are common in the world, but they don’t have to be something you regularly have to deal with. Follow these preventive tips to take good care of your teeth and gums, and make sure to see your dentist regularly to make sure everything is in working order.
About the Practice
The team of doctors at Bell Road Dental Care always puts their patients first. It is their priority that everyone they care for has an equal opportunity to receive the tools and education they need to maintain healthy smiles. Their combined years of experience and expertise make them a great choice for your next dental checkup. Request an appointment online or call (602) 404-3483.