Television advertisements for mouthwash and toothpaste, each with special components that whiten teeth and give off a minty-fresh scent, highlight the significance of maintaining healthy gums and teeth.
Some of the most prevalent illnesses in the world, oral disorders hurt people’s quality of life and have serious health and financial repercussions. According to Dranewsome, several studies have shown that a large number of individuals do not routinely attend a dental office and are unaware that they may have oral health issues!
Oral hygiene: what is it?
The condition of one’s teeth, gums, and mouth as a whole is referred to as oral health or hygiene. Conditions that affect oral health are frequently referred to as “dental disorders.”
Dental problems include tooth decay, gum disease, gum infections, and cavities. They can make someone feel uncomfortable and painful, get in the way of enjoying food, and make them feel less confident in themselves.
Which dental conditions are most prevalent in India?
We all have some kind of gum disease or tooth-related issue in today’s society. In most cases, poor oral hygiene, cold drinks, fast food, and poor diets are contributing factors to dental disorders. Before they are 60, about 99% of adults experience tooth problems. It is important to realize that by taking proper care of our teeth and visiting our dentist regularly, we can prevent all dental issues and ensure they receive immediate attention from Dranewsome.
The most 5 prevalent dental problems that people encounter are listed below:
1)Bad Breath-
Halitosis, another name for bad breath, is a condition that can be extremely embarrassing. There are several causes of poor breath. Bad breath can also result from gum disease and tongue problems. Halitosis is frequently caused by poor dental hygiene, such as not brushing or flossing teeth. To avoid this, we must make sure to brush twice a day—in the morning and at night, right before bed. A dentist should be consulted if the issue continues.
2)Cavities/ Tooth Decay-
After a meal, food particles remaining on the teeth’s surface often lead to tooth decay. These components are not eliminated when we brush improperly, and they eventually build up to produce plaque and tartar. When sugar and tartar come into contact, the tartar creates acid that erodes the tooth enamel and causes decay. Once more, brushing twice a day is the most typical treatment for it; nevertheless, if tartar has formed, you will need to contact your dentist for teeth polishing or cleaning.
3)Periodontal Disease-
Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is a prevalent oral health condition characterized by inflammation of the gums and, if left untreated, can lead to damage to the soft tissue and bone supporting the teeth. Usually, it starts when plaque, a sticky bacterial film that forms on teeth, builds up. Poor oral hygiene, smoking, genetics, and certain medical conditions contribute to its development.
Both gingivitis and periodontitis are the two main phases of periodontal disease. Gingivitis is the early and reversible stage marked by red, swollen gums and bleeding during brushing. If not addressed, it can progress to periodontitis, where the inner layer of the gum pulls away from the teeth, forming pockets that can become infected. As the body’s immune response fights the bacteria, the connective tissue and bone holding teeth in place break down.
Warning signs include persistent bad breath, loose teeth, receding gums, and changes in bite. Regular dental check-ups, effective oral hygiene practices, and lifestyle modifications, such as quitting smoking, are crucial for prevention and management. Early intervention is key in halting the progression of periodontal disease and preserving overall oral health.
4)Oral Cancer-
This is by far the deadliest and most dangerous dental issue, with a patient’s death possible within a year of the onset. The two main causes of oral cancer are chewing tobacco and smoking cigarettes. In addition to making sure we avoid consuming any of the aforementioned, frequent dental checkups are crucial for the early detection and treatment of oral cancer.
5)Stained Teeth-
Stained teeth, a common dental concern, occur when pigmented substances in food, beverages, and tobacco products accumulate on tooth enamel or get absorbed into the dentin beneath. External factors, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco, contribute to extrinsic stains on the enamel surface. Additionally, poor dental hygiene can lead to the formation of plaque, further intensifying discoloration.
Intrinsic stains, on the other hand, originate from within the tooth, often caused by factors like excessive fluoride exposure during tooth development, certain medications, or trauma. Aging also contributes to intrinsic discoloration as the enamel thins, revealing the yellowish dentin beneath.
Preventive measures include maintaining good oral hygiene practices, regular dental cleanings, and minimizing consumption of staining agents. Professional teeth whitening treatments, either in-office or at-home, are effective in addressing extrinsic stains. In cases of intrinsic discoloration, cosmetic dentistry options like veneers or bonding may be considered.
While stained teeth are primarily a cosmetic concern, addressing them can enhance one’s confidence and contribute to overall oral well-being. Consulting with a dentist allows for personalized recommendations tailored to the specific causes and types of staining.