4 Oral Health Conditions You May Be at Risk of Right Now

Some people love going to the dentist, but others often stress about how well they’ve taken care of their teeth. “Have I been flossing correctly? Will I have a cavity?” Dental problems can definitely put a damper on a visit to your dentist in Horseshoe Bay, but knowing your risks and how to prevent them is the key to good oral health. Here are a few of the most common dental issues and how to spot them.

Some people love going to the dentist, but others often stress about how well they’ve taken care of their teeth. “Have I been flossing correctly? Will I have a cavity?” Dental problems can definitely put a damper on a visit to your dentist in Horseshoe Bay, but knowing your risks and how to prevent them is the key to good oral health. Here are a few of the most common dental issues and how to spot them.

Cavities

No one wants to hear that they have a cavity, but this is one of the most common oral health issues. According to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 80 percent of people will have developed a cavity by age 34. Tooth decay occurs when the harmful bacteria in plaque produces an acid that eats away at your enamel. The more sugars and starches you eat, the more acid bacteria will produce. If you experience tooth sensitivity, spontaneous dental pain or if you see black, brown or white staining on any surface of your tooth you probably have a cavity.

Foul-Smelling Breath (Halitosis)

Bad breath is one of the most embarrassing oral health issues. It can be caused by many different dental problems, such as cavities, gum disease and bacteria on the tongue. Typically, it is the result of odor-creating bacteria that accumulates on bits of food that is left in the mouth or stuck between teeth and emits sulfur compounds. Most people believe mouthwash is the cure for this issue, but if it doesn’t follow a routine of brushing and flossing, it will only cover the smell for a short period of time. Luckily, you don’t have to live with this problem. If you have chronic bad breath, speak with your dentist so they can create a plan of action to correct it.

Gum Disease

This dental issue is a bit more serious than the last two. Gum disease is an infection that can cause tooth and bone loss. It has also been linked to heart disease. Individuals who are most at risk for this condition are typically older than 30, but if you smoke, have diabetes or suffer from dry mouth, your risk is much higher. Symptoms of gum disease include dental sensitivity, pain when chewing and swollen, sensitive gums.

Oral Cancer

This deadly disease affects millions of people every year. The Oral Cancer Foundation has estimated that at least one person dies every hour from this disease. Alcohol use, smoking or chewing tobacco can all increase the risk. The good news is that when diagnosed early, oral cancer can be cured. If you notice any slow-healing sores, lumps or rough patches in your mouth, you should make an appointment with your dentist immediately.

Some of these conditions can be easily treated, but others may require more extensive procedures to correct them. The best way to prevent problems with your oral health is to practice a good dental routine at home. But another crucial part of preventive care is to keep your dental appointments. Visiting your dentist regularly for cleanings and exams will allow them to catch any dental issues early and fix them before they get any worse. 

About the Author

Dr. Gregory Sopel has more than 35 years of oral healthcare experience. After graduating from the Tufts School of Dental Medicine in 1980, he continued his training in a General Practice Residency program as a member of the United States Army. Dr. Sopel and his team of dental professionals at Horseshoe Bay Dental provide each patient with customized, comprehensive dental care. If you think you have symptoms of any of these common dental issues, contact the office at (830) 598-5474or visit the website to schedule an appointment.