Health Photos
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Bad breath - Most people suffer from bad breath occasionally. Bad breath is usually due to the breakdown of proteins by bacteria somewhere in the mouth. Maintaining good oral hygiene, eliminating gum disease and scheduling regular professional cleanings are essential to reducing bad breath. Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste to remove food debris and plaque. Brush your tongue, too.
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Tooth decay - Tooth decay is a very common problem. Bacteria normally reside in the mouth. They, however, mix with the proteins present in the saliva (spit) to form plaque and attach to the hard enamel surface of the tooth. The bacteria feed on food sugars and starches and produce an acid. This acid eats into the tooth enamel damaging the tooth.
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Gum disease - Gum disease (also called periodontal disease), is an infection of the tissues that support the teeth. Gum disease is caused by plaque, which is a sticky film of bacteria, mucous and food debris that constantly forms on the teeth. Regular and proper brushing along with good dental hygiene are important for preventing gum disease.
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Mouth sores - Various types of sores can appear anywhere within the mouth, including the inner cheeks, gums, tongue, lips, or palate. Mouth sores generally last for 10 to 14 days and even last up to 6 weeks. The following tips may make you feel better:
-Gargle with cool water. This is particularly helpful if you have a mouth burn.
-Avoid hot beverages and foods, spicy and salty foods and citrus.
-Take pain relievers like acetaminophen. -
Tooth erosion - Tooth erosion is caused by acidic foods and drinks that dissolve away the surface of the tooth. It is becoming increasingly more common, especially due to greater consumption of fizzy drinks - including diet brands. The best to prevent tooth erosion is to cut acidic foods and drinks from out diet.
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Tooth sensitivity - Tooth sensitivity is tooth pain due to a wearing away of the tooth's surface or gum tissue. People with sensitive teeth experience pain or discomfort from sweets, cold air, hot drinks, cold drinks or ice cream. Some people with the condition even experience discomfort from brushing and flossing. Sensitive teeth can usually be treated successfully. It is important to keep your mouth clean to prevent unhealthy bacteria sticking to your teeth and causing dental problems.
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Bleeding gums - Bleeding from the gums is mainly due to inadequate plaque removal from the teeth at the gum line. This will lead to a condition called gingivitis, or inflamed gums. Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gums around the teeth due to improper cleaning of the teeth. The usual signs of gingivitis are gums, which are swollen and bleed during brushing.
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Oral cancer - Oral cancer is a cancerous tissue growth located in the oral cavity. Oral cancers may originate in any of the tissues of the mouth. It may also occur on the floor of the mouth, cheek lining, gums or roof of the mouth. Smoking and other tobacco use are associated with about 75 percent of oral cancer cases, caused by irritation of the mucous membranes of the mouth from smoke and heat of cigarettes, cigars, and pipes. Alcohol drinking is another high-risk activity associated with oral cancer.
