9 Oral Health And Mouth Problems!

Oral health and mouth problems are very common. Numerous factors can lead to such issues. Ignoring them at the earlier stages leads to severe complications. In this blog, we have come up with detailed information on common oral and mouth problems. Going through the section below will give you a clear idea about these problems and, in turn, help you to identify them. 

9 Common Problems In Your Mouth

Cold sores

Cold sores are the most common mouth problem. You don’t develop cold sores from fevers or colds, although they might trigger them. These blisters are also known as fever blisters. Cold sores usually spread due to the use of the same cutlery, via kiss or other close contacts. Applying over-the-counter creams and ointments can reduce pain and accelerate the healing process.

Thrush

Thrush is a yeast infection caused by candida and is more common in babies and older adults. A weakened immunity, antibiotics, certain medications such as inhaled corticosteroids, and diabetes are a few factors that can lead to the unchecked growth of candida. Wiping away the patches will cause soreness. Consult a dentist for an accurate diagnosis.

Canker Sores

Hypersensitivity, infection, hormones, stress, and deficiency of specific vitamins are considered to be triggers of canker sores. They are also known as aphthous ulcers and can appear on the tongue, cheek, or even your gums. The canker sores often last one to two weeks. Dental lasers, prescription medications, or numbing lotions can all be used to treat persistent, severe canker sores.

Leukoplakia

Leukoplakia is a reaction to uncomfortably fitting dentures, abrasive teeth, smoking, and smokeless tobacco. It can appear in the mouth as white plaques or patches and is typically painless. You need to know that leukoplakia cannot be removed by scraping. Consult a dentist if you notice persistent patches or other changes in your mouth.

Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is mostly caused due to regular consumption of alcohol, smoking, using smokeless tobacco, family history of cancer, or overexposure to the sun. Oral cancer has often been linked with human papillomavirus or HPV. Unexplained numbness in the face, mouth, or neck, as well as difficulty speaking, chewing, or swallowing, are some of the common signs of oral cancer. Do not hesitate to get professional medical help if you notice any such symptoms. Oral cancer, if detected early, can be treated or cured. 

TMJ

The temporomandibular joint syndrome is a problem with the jaw that can cause severe discomfort in the jaw, face, ear, or neck. The common symptoms of this problem are – discomfort, headaches, dizziness, and even difficulty swallowing. TMJ syndrome can be caused due to clenching, teeth grinding, or injury. 

Chipped Teeth

Munching on hard candies or ice, grinding or clenching teeth, or even exposing your teeth to cold and heat can lead to chipped teeth. Tiny cracks or chips might not be something to bother about. But anything more could lead to immense pain or permanent tooth damage. Your dentist may recommend dental bonding, tooth contouring, porcelain veneers, and crowns to repair severely damaged teeth.

Gum Disease

When periodontal (gum) disease develops, bacteria in plaque collect along the gum line. The early stage of gum disease is known as gingivitis. Symptoms include red, swollen, and bleeding gums. Periodontal disease can be avoided with good oral hygiene. Stress, a bad diet, and smoking can aggravate it.

Periodontitis

Periodontitis is the next stage of gum disease or infection. The gums recede due to increased inflammation, creating spaces between the gums and teeth. These pockets trap plaque, tartar, and food debris, leading to inflammation and abscesses. Advanced gum disease destroys the bone that supports teeth and is one of the primary causes of tooth loss in adults. 

We hope you now know the different types of oral problems. Take care of your mouth, maintain a proper oral hygiene routine and visit our dentist regularly if you want to avoid such issues.