When it comes to dental problems, many people have them, most people don’t even know. That’s why you should visit your dental practice in Glasgow twice a year as they can detect and help prevent problems from worsening. Here are some of the most common dental problems.
Bad Breath
Bad breath can occur and is extremely common, however, persistent bad breath could be a sign of an oral health problem. Some of the dental problems that could be causing bad breath include;
- Gum disease
- Cavities
- Oral cancer
- Dry mouth
- Bacteria on the tongue
Mouthwash and brushing teeth can mask bad breath but the only real cure is to identify and treat the problem at its source. Most of the problems listed above do worsen over time if left untreated and can lead to loss of teeth and other nasty side effects. Going to your dental practice in Glasgow can help you get to the root of the problem (no pun intended).
Tooth Decay
Tooth decay (cavities) is extremely common. When plaque builds up and combines with sugar and starch from the food you eat it sticks to the teeth. This then produces acid which eats away at the tooth enamel and eventually the teeth. People can get cavities at any age and dry mouth or medication can make them occur more frequently.
The best way to prevent this is to brush twice a day, floss every day and going to your dental practice in Glasgow twice a year.
Gum (Periodontal) Disease
Gum disease is extremely common and is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. Gum disease occurs when the gums that surround the teeth become infected. Your risk of developing gum disease increases if you;
- Have diabetes
- Dry mouth
- Smoke
- Are over 30
Symptoms of gum disease include;
- Bad breath
- Red, swollen, tender or bleeding gums
- Sensitive teeth
- Painful chewing
There are three different stages of gum disease
Gingivitis – early stage gum disease, common symptoms include bleeding gums when brushing or flossing.
Periodontists – at this stage of gum disease the fibres that hold your teeth in placed are damaged and this cannot be reversed.
Advanced Periodontists – this is the last stage of gum disease and can cause teeth to become loose and even fall out.
Oral Cancer
Oral cancer is a huge killer but it can be cured if it’s caught early enough. It’s most commonly seen in people over the age of 40.
Your risk increases with smoking tobacco and drinking alcohol, if you have HPV you also have an increased risk of developing oral cancer.
Symptoms include;
- Sores, lumps or rough areas in mouth
- Change in bite
- Difficulty chewing, swallowing or moving your tongue or jaw
If you notice that you have any symptoms, contact your dental practice in Glasgow as soon as possible.
