Periodontal (gum) disease is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. It’s typically caused by poor brushing and flossing habits that allow plaque (a sticky film of bacteria) to build up on the teeth and harden. In advanced stages, periodontal disease can lead to sore, Bleeding gums; Painful chewing problems; and even tooth loss.
Our mouths are full of bacteria. These bacteria, along with mucus and other particles, constantly form a sticky, colorless “plaque” on teeth. Brushing and flossing help get rid of plaque. Plaque that is not removed can harden and form “tartar” that brushing doesn’t clean. Only a professional cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist can remove tartar.
There are a number of risk factors for gum disease, but smoking is the most significant. Smoking also can make treatment for gum disease less successful. Other risk factors include diabetes; hormonal changes in girls and women; medications that lessen the flow of saliva; certain illnesses, such as AIDS, and their medications; and genetic susceptibility.
Mouth ulcers are small sores that form on your gums, lips, inner cheeks, or palate (roof of mouth). They can be triggered by several different factors, including minor injuries, hormonal changes, and emotional stress. They aren’t contagious and there are treatments to help ease pain and discomfort.
Some people may develop ulcers because of a different medical condition or a nutritional deficiency. Conditions such as celiac or Crohn’s disease, vitamin B12 or iron deficiency, or a weakened immune system may all trigger ulcers to form.
For most people, mouth ulcers will clear up within 2 weeks. However, any new ulcer, non healing ulcers or any ulcer lasting longer than 3 weeks can be dangerous and require immediate care.
Bad breath, also called halitosis, can be embarrassing and in some cases may even cause anxiety. It’s no wonder that store shelves are overflowing with gum, mints, mouthwashes, and other products designed to fight bad breath. But many of these products are only temporary measures because they don’t address the cause of the problem.
Certain foods, Poor oral health care, Odor-causing bacteria on the tongue, Improper cleaning of dentures, Dry mouth, Tobacco products, gum disease, certain health conditions and habits are some of the causes of bad breath.
In many cases, you can improve bad breath with consistent maintenance of proper dental hygiene. If simple self-care techniques don’t solve the problem, see your dentist or physician to be sure a more serious condition isn’t causing your bad breath.
Tooth sensitivity occurs when the enamel that protects our teeth gets thinner, or when gum recession occurs, exposing the underlying surface, the dentin, thus, reducing the protection the enamel and gums provide to the tooth and root.