Things you should know about oral and dental Health 

Taking good care of your teeth and mouth is really important for your overall health. If you don't, it can cause problems like cavities in your teeth and issues with your gums. But it's not just about your mouth – it can even affect your heart, increase your risk of cancer, and make diabetes worse.

To keep your mouth healthy, you need to make it a habit from a young age. Things like brushing your teeth, using floss, and not eating too much sugary stuff are all part of it. If you do these things regularly, you can avoid having to spend a lot of money on dental work and stay healthier in the long run.  

Think of your mouth as a community of tiny organisms like bacteria and fungi. Most of them are harmless, just coexisting peacefully.

But when you consume lots of sugary foods, it's like providing fuel for the troublemakers among these tiny residents. They thrive on sugar and produce acid, which is harmful to your teeth. This acid can weaken the protective layer on your teeth, called enamel, leading to cavities.

Now, consider your gums as a neighborhood. Bacteria like to form sticky deposits there, known as plaque. If you forget to clean them out with regular brushing and flossing, they become problematic. They can cause your gums to become red and swollen, a condition called gingivitis.

However, if you ignore gingivitis, it can progress into a more severe issue. The inflammation can cause your gums to move away from your teeth, creating pockets where harmful substances like pus can accumulate. This advanced gum problem is called periodontitis.

So, why do these issues occur? Well, several factors can attract these tiny troublemakers:

- Smoking (creates an environment they enjoy)

- Inadequate oral hygiene (they like an unclean habitat)

- Frequent consumption of sugary snacks and drinks (they thrive on sugar)

- Having diabetes (creates conditions they like)

- Medications that reduce saliva (they prefer a moist environment)

- Family history (there might be a genetic predisposition)

- Certain illnesses like HIV or AIDS (they thrive in such conditions)

- Hormonal changes (can trigger gum issues)

- Acid reflux or heartburn (creates an acidic environment they enjoy)

- Frequent vomiting (exposes teeth to stomach acid)

To maintain harmony in your oral community, it's not just about brushing and flossing. Your diet, overall health, and even your family history can all impact the balance within this micro-world in your mouth. Keeping it balanced is essential for good oral health. 

Dental cavities and gum disease are pervasive oral health concerns, as delineated by the World Health Organization:

1. Dental Cavities:

   - Among school children, a prevalence ranging from 60% to 90% is observed, with at least one dental cavity.

   - The adult population is virtually universally affected, with nearly 100% having experienced at least one dental cavity.

   

2. Severe Gum Disease:

   - Notably, adults between the ages of 35 to 44 contend with severe gum disease at an incidence rate ranging from 15% to 20%.

   

3. Tooth Loss:

   - A significant  portion of the global population, approximately 30% of individuals aged 65 to 74, has lost all their natural teeth.

   

4. Oral Cancer:

   - Across various nations, oral cancer is reported to afflict between 1 and 10 cases per 100,000 individuals.

   

5. Disparities in Oral Health:

   - Importantly, it is worth noting that the burden of oral disease disproportionately affects disadvantaged or economically challenged population segments.

To uphold and promote optimal dental health, a multifaceted approach is recommended:

- Regular Oral Hygiene: Consistent use of fluoride toothpaste for brushing at least twice daily.

- Flossing: Daily flossing to remove interdental debris and plaque.

- Dietary Choices: A prudent dietary regimen that minimizes sugar intake and incorporates ample fruits and vegetables.

- Tobacco Avoidance: Abstinence from tobacco products, a known detriment to oral health.

- Fluoridated Water: Consumption of fluoridated water, where available, to bolster enamel protection.

- Professional Care: Regular consultations with dental professionals to ensure comprehensive oral health care.

These measures collectively contribute to the substantial reduction of dental and oral health issues, exemplifying a commitment to oral well-being. 

Types of Dental and oral diseases 

1. Cavities (Tooth Holes)

   - At first, cavities appear as small light brown spots on your teeth.

   - Over time, they deepen into holes and can turn black.

   - You can't wish cavities away; you'll need a dentist to fix them with fillings or crowns. Waiting too long might require more serious treatments like root canals or tooth removal.

2.Gingivitis & Periodontal Disease (Gum Troubles)

   - Gingivitis is a mild form of gum problems causing gum inflammation, and many adults over 30 experience it.

   - Gum disease is a more severe stage that harms your gums and jawbone. If you neglect gingivitis, it can progress into gum disease.

   - Gum issues happen when oral care isn't up to par, especially if you smoke or indulge in sugary treats. Signs include swollen and bleeding gums, along with excessive plaque and tartar on your teeth.

3. Bad Breath (Halitosis)

   - Bad breath affects roughly 30% of the population and can have various causes.

   - Smoking, sugary diets, excessive coffee or alcohol, poor brushing habits, and dry mouth can all contribute to unpleasant breath.

   - It can also signal gum problems, so it's crucial not to disregard it. Depending on its severity, dentists can offer treatments, and there are natural ways to improve your breath.

Remember, maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to prevent these issues. If you do encounter them, seeking help from a dentist is the best course of action. 

4.Cracked Tooth Syndrome

   - Cracked tooth syndrome happens when you grind or clench your teeth a lot, which can create tiny cracks inside your teeth.

   - Spotting these cracks can be tough because they're not always visible, but they can really hurt when you bite in a certain way. Small cracks might not hurt much, though.

   - But here's the thing: those cracks can get worse and cause serious damage over time. So, if you suspect a cracked tooth, see your dentist soon. They can usually fix it with things like onlays or crowns.

5.Dental Anxiety

   - Some folks get really nervous about going to the dentist. In fact, about 16 percent of adults feel anxious or scared during dental visits.

   - If you're super anxious, there are options like anesthesia or sedation that can help you relax, especially for more complicated dental work.

6.Oral Thrush (Oral Candidiasis)

   - Oral thrush is like a yeast infection in your mouth. It happens when too much yeast grows on the inside of your cheeks and tongue.

   - At first, it might not bother you much, just a white spot on your tongue that you can wipe away. But it can be more common if you have a dry mouth, a weak immune system, or diabetes that's not well controlled.

Remember, don't wait too long to get dental issues checked out. It's best to catch and fix them early.  

By Andrew Anongu, DailyHealth