From bad breath to enamel erosion, there are many issues that can affect our teeth, and many ways in which such problems can impact on our general lives.
Certain dental problems are not easy to spot either. While many of us might prefer to know if our breath smells, few people would feel comfortable telling us so, and in turn individuals may go for years with severe halitosis without even knowing.
Fortunately, with the right knowledge, many of these issues can be avoided or dealt with effectively, and by taking the time to focus on oral hygiene, individuals may find they have healthier mouths, healthier bodies and healthier social lives.
Prevention
It may be a cliche but it is one that very much applies: prevention is better than cure. It is a far better idea to look after your teeth in the first place rather than hoping your dentist will later be able to just wave a magic wand. Brushing twice a day, flossing regularly and visiting your local dental practice at least twice a year will all be extremely important for those who wish to avoid cavities, bad breath and even mouth cancer.
Bad breath
There are many common dental problems that are easy to avoid. Halitosis may be the most socially stigmatising, but it is one that can often be cured or avoided. According to studies, over 80% of people with persistent bad breath have the issue due to a dental condition. Those that know about it will often simply try to cover it up rather than focussing on how they look after their mouths, while many others will be blissfully unaware they even have a problem. While brushing, flossing and regular cleaning of the tongue will all help, regular checkups are vital to treating existing conditions and preventing the development of further problems.
Decay
Cavities are another major problem that can be avoided. Changing one’s diet and having a strict oral hygiene regimen will make a big difference. Try swapping those manual brushes for electric ones and ensure that you spend at least two minutes brushing your teeth twice a day, spending at least 30 seconds on each quadrant. Avoiding sugary food and drink will also be vital as will limiting the number of snacks you have in general throughout the day, whether they are healthy or otherwise.
Erosion
Tooth erosion is caused when excessive amounts of acid attack enamel and break it down. This can be painful, unsightly and lead to many further issues. The right daily cleaning regimen remains vital here as does the right diet, however there may also be preventative treatments that dentists can offer on top. Furthermore, those that have eroded teeth or unsightly smiles will find a wide range of cosmetic procedures available that could restore their smile and give them a great starting point for long-term oral health in the future.