We all know how important it is to brush and floss our teeth at least twice daily for nice, clean teeth. But brushing and flossing bacteria in your mouth away does more than keep your teeth looking clean. The daily routines help you avoid tooth decay, gum disease, viruses, and other infections that can cause more significant problems. Watch for signs of some of the most common oral conditions.
Gingivitis
Also known as gum disease, gingivitis is caused by bacteria that settle into crevices in the mouth. The bacteria produce toxins, which cause inflammation and swelling in the gums. The most common sign of gingivitis is bleeding from the gums after brushing or flossing. The best way to keep gingivitis away is regular brushing and flossing.
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. If gingivitis spreads, it can affect tissues and bones below the gum line, leading to periodontal disease. Often, the teeth will loosen due to bone destruction, causing tooth loss.
Canker Sores
Dentists call them aphthous ulcers, but canker sores are pesky and painful no matter what you call them. They are lesions that develop on tissues in the mouth, most commonly found in children and adolescents. Canker sores are triggered by hormones, immune problems, stress, food sensitivities, and other infections and can take ten to fourteen days to clear up.
Oral Herpes
Between 50 and 80 percent of American adults carry the herpes simplex virus, which causes oral herpes. The initial infection causes blisters and ulcers on the gums and tongue and, sometimes, flu-like symptoms. This virus remains in your body once you have been infected, but proper care can keep it dormant.
Thrush
Thrush is usually caused by an overgrowth of a fungus called "Candida albicans" in your mouth. Thrush will present as white bumps on the tongue, palate, inner cheeks, and back of your mouth. A thrush outbreak usually occurs due to medical treatments such as antibiotics, chemotherapy, and radiation. Thrush is also a common infection for those with HIV.
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
Hand, foot, and mouth disease is an infection that typically impacts children and only lasts a few days. Caused by the virus "Coxsackie A16," symptoms can include fever, sore throat, and blisters on the cheek, butt, palms, and soles of feet.
If it is time for you to have a regular check-up or think you might have a mouth disorder or oral infection, reach out to Value Dental Care. Our trained staff is always ready to help you with all of your oral care needs. We offer high-quality care at affordable prices. Email or call us today to schedule an appointment at our Spring Hill (352-684-1274) or Crystal River (352-794-6139) locations.
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