Oral Health Diseases

There is growing evidence that oral inflammatory diseases have an impact on systemic health conditions. Severe gum disease in the mouth can lead to destruction of the supporting structures of teeth causing loss of gums and bone. This disease has been associated with cardiovascular disease, adverse pregnancy outcomes, lung conditions, inflammatory bowel disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and diabetes. The evidence for some conditions is still growing, but it does highlight how important taking care of your mouth is for the health of your entire body

Gingivitis

An inflammatory disease triggered by bacteria in dental plaque causing the body to respond with swollen, red, tender gums that bleed with or without a trigger. It progresses from mild, moderate forms to severe and can be a chronic condition. It begins at the gum margin at the base of the tooth. The longer plaque has been around the gums, the harder it is for the body to defend itself from bacteria. Gingivitis is reversible with good technique of regular brushing and flossing.

Periodontitis Chronic inflammation from gingivitis in some individuals can progress to periodontitis where there is a loss of gums and bone. In very severe stages teeth will become loose and can be difficult to save. The risk factors for periodontitis increase with smoking, poor oral hygiene, diabetes and to a lower extent certain ethnicities. It is important to get regular dental check ups as often periodontitis is not painful. The disease can be stabilised with professional dental cleaning. It is also important to ensure that other controllable risk factors are managed such as quitting smoking or ensuring diseases such as diabetes is well controlled.

Caries

Dental caries commonly known as cavities or decay are caused by bacteria metabolising starches in the mouth to create an acidic environment that surpasses the buffering capacity of the tooth’s hard surfaces. Poor diet and oral hygiene will increase the risk of developing dental caries. By maintaining a nutritious low sugar diet, brushing twice a day, flossing once a day and visiting the dentist regularly will substantially reduce the risk of dental caries developing. Early cavities can be halted from progressing with dental treatment. The further that dental cavities progress, the more extensive the treatment will be. Dental caries may not hurt in the early stages.

Important Steps

It is important to have regular dental check ups to prevent the development or progression of oral health diseases. They are all preventable and can be managed by following good oral health care. Remember:

1. Brush twice a day
2. Floss once a day
3. Eat a nutritious well balanced diet
4. Visit the dentist regularly