Four Common Oral Issues and Solutions

#1. Bad Breath

Nobody likes bad breath – especially if you are on the receiving end of it. But if someone mentioned you have bad breath what do you do?

Solutions depend on the cause. If you are brushing and flossing on a regular basis (at least twice daily), and your dentist says your teeth are ok, we have to look further.

There are medical disorders that cause bad breath such as:

• Respiratory infection
• Chronic sinusitis or bronchitis
• Diabetes
• Gastrointestinal disturbance
• Liver or kidney ailments

You might not be aware that particular medications can cause dry mouth, which can contribute to bad breath. Finally, the solution may be as simple as watching what you eat! Too much garlic or onion will contribute to halitosis. And tobacco use has always been associated with bad breath!

#2. Tooth Decay

We have several articles about tooth decay and how to prevent it. Start with brushing twice a day, flossing once a day, and visiting your dentist regularly for exams and cleanings to help fight tooth decay.

Eat a balanced diet and keep your snacking to a minimum to help head off plaque and subsequent tooth decay. It is very important to avoid acidic food and drinks, as the acid attacks the enamel on your teeth. Citrus fruits and juices, tomatoes, pickles, soda, and sports drinks all damage your enamel.

#3. Receding Gums

Known as periodontal disease, receding gums are not good and can have serious repercussions. If your gums are red, swollen, and bleed easily while brushing, you may be looking at the early stages of periodontal disease.

Advanced stages of periodontal disease damage the gums and bones that support the teeth. At this stage you could be dealing with loose teeth as their base of support is eroding. Be careful of over brushing as well, as this can also remove enamel from the teeth and damage gums.

If you grind your teeth when you sleep, you are also at risk of losing enamel and allowing periodontal disease to creep in.

#4. Mouth Sores

Those painful, unsightly sores that open up at the worst possible times.

Canker sores develop inside the mouth and cold sores usually are external on the edge of the lips. Both are common sores and are extremely annoying if not downright painful and embarrassing.

Even though they tend to heal on their own within a week or so, that knowledge does not help when you have them! Try over-the-counter treatments or antimicrobial mouth rinses to reduce discomfort. You might ask your doctor about solutions, especially if they are caused by the herpes virus.

There you go. The four most common oral issues and solutions. The best prevention is great oral health. Take care of your mouth for all around body health!