What Are The Most Common Dental Diseases?

A bright and healthy smile is essential for a confident appearance. Daily oral hygiene is crucial for maintaining strong gums and healthy teeth. This practice not only keeps our mouth fresh and clean but also helps us feel more comfortable eating whatever we desire.

Despite our best efforts to maintain good oral health, dental diseases can occur. In this article, we will go over the most common dental diseases and how to prevent them.

Why Is It Important to Know About Dental Diseases?

Dental diseases can affect anyone, regardless of age or socioeconomic status. These diseases, if not prevented or treated promptly, can cause pain, discomfort, and even tooth loss.

Moreover, some dental diseases are associated with other major health issues, even certain types of cancer like oral cancer. This is because the health of your mouth is inextricably linked to the health of your entire body.

Gum disease, for example, has been linked to a higher risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. The reason is that gum disease can cause inflammation in the body, which can lead to artery narrowing and an increased risk of heart attack or stroke. Furthermore, because of their weakened immune systems, diabetics are more susceptible to gum disease.

Understanding the signs and symptoms of common dental diseases can help you take preventive measures and, if necessary, seek early treatment.

What Are The Most Common Dental Diseases?

Considering the severity of dental health concerns, it’s important to be aware of the most common dental diseases that can affect us. To assist you with this, let’s take a look at the six most frequently encountered diseases that dentists treat in patients. 

Tooth Decay

Tooth decay, also known as cavities, is one of the most common dental diseases in humans. The buildup of plaque on the teeth produces acid, which eats away at the tooth enamel. Tooth decay symptoms include toothache, sensitivity, and visible holes or pits on the tooth surface.

Gum Disease

Also called periodontal disease, gum disease is caused by plaque and bacteria accumulation around the gum line. Common gum disease indications are red, swollen, and bleeding gums; bad breath; and receding gums. If left untreated, this can result in tooth loss or even worse.

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Oral Cancer

Cancer of the mouth, lips, tongue, and throat is a serious disease. It is usually caused by smoking and drinking, and in some extreme cases, by the HPV virus. Its symptoms include persistent sores in the mouth, difficulty swallowing, and mouth tissues’ color or texture changes.

Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is a common dental problem caused by a number of factors, such as tooth decay, gum recession, and teeth grinding. Sharp pain or discomfort when eating or drinking hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods are symptoms of tooth sensitivity.

Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding, or bruxism, is a sleep disorder in which a person clenches or grinds their teeth. Teeth grinding can lead to tooth damage, jaw pain, and headaches over time.

Root Infection

A root infection, also known as a dental abscess, is a bacterial infection that occurs in the root of a tooth. It can cause excruciating pain, swelling, and fever. A root infection can spread to other parts of the body and become life-threatening if left untreated.

Tips for Preventing Dental Diseases

As the danger of untreated oral diseases can be alarming, how can one battle against them on a daily basis? 

Don’t worry, because there are three simple steps anyone can take in their daily lives to avoid common dental diseases.

Brushing and Flossing Regularly

This is the most effective and simple method of preventing dental diseases. It aids in the removal of plaque and bacteria from the teeth and gums, thereby lowering the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Eating a Balanced and Nutritious Diet

This is necessary to maintain good oral health. Sugar and carbohydrate-rich foods can increase the risk of tooth decay, whereas calcium- and vitamin D-rich foods can strengthen the teeth and bones.

Avoiding Tobacco and Excessive Alcohol Consumption

Tobacco and alcohol could become significant risk factors for oral cancer and other dental diseases. By quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption, the risk of developing these conditions can be largely reduced.

Conclusion

Understanding the most common dental diseases and putting simple preventive measures in place can help you maintain good oral health and avoid serious dental issues.

There is no better way to avoid dental diseases than to visit the dental clinic often to do dental check-ups and listen to dentists’ recommendations. If you are in the NYC area, let the NYC Dental Smile Team be that trusted dental clinic of yours!

Feel free to make an appointment with us today for any concerns about your dental health, as your overall well-being is at the center of everything we do. Our skilled dentists can help diagnose and treat dental diseases, as well as make personalized recommendations for maintaining good oral hygiene.

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