Your mouth is one of if not the most important organ in the human body. Sticking to a strong oral routine isn’t just about brushing and flossing your teeth to keep your teeth clean. It is about ensuring your mouth is safe from oral infections, including certain lifestyle and dietary choices. If you have cosmetic treatments fitted such as dental veneers, it is even more improtant to keep your natural teeth clean behind the veneers. For example, if you smoke, drink alcohol and eat sugar, you’re more likely to experience certain oral infections that may prove irreversible.
Some infections can be short-term issues and prevented with a strong oral routine. Although, some can advanced and stick around for a long time. Let’s take a look at common oral infections.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is the first sign of bacteria build-up in the mouth. The bacteria settles on the gum line and causes inflammation and swelling. When you brush your teeth, you’re likely to experience some bleeding. It can be treated by making sure you brush and floss your teeth and keep your mouth clean.
Periodontal Disease
This is the more advanced stage of gum disease, where the bacteria has penetrated and spread around your gums and your bone, causing infections and inflammation. Eventually, gum pockets will form, which is a sign of gum recession when the gums pull back from the tooth surface. You’ll likely need emergency treatment, but the extent of it depends on the severity of the damage periodontal disease has caused.
Dental Caries (Cavity)
A cavity is a tiny opening (a hole) that forms due to the breakdown of your tooth enamel, the outer coating of your front teeth. When bacteria and food combine together to produce acid, this destroys your enamel and results in stages of tooth decay, with cavity being one of them. The hole is a permanent form of damage that will require a tooth filling to restore its natural functioning.
Canker Sores
Canker Sores, or ulcers, are lesions that form on the gumline or soft tissue in your mouth or at the base of your gums. They don’t occur ont he surface of your lips but can cause sensitivity, especially when eating and talking. They are temporary and go away within 7 days or more. They can be noticed as yellow or white sores.
Herpangia
Herpangia is more common amongst children, where blisters form at the back of the mouth. They can rupture and become larger ulcers with its symptoms being similar to hand, foot and mouth disease. Those with herpangia will experience fevers and a sore throat. They commonly last between three to five days.
Oral Herpes
The herpes simplex virus is something common amongst many adults. Oral herpes are flu-like symptoms as blisters and ulcers on the tongue and gums. They may not have flu-like symptoms at all, but to keep them dormat, keep proactiving proper oral care. As part of the flu-like symptoms, you can experience fatigue and fevers.
If you’re experiencing either of these oral infections, it is important that it gets resolved as early as possible. That’s where we can help. Get in touch with us today for an appointment.