A wide range of common dental conditions exists and affect different people. From something as little as a tooth stain to bad breath, tooth decay and gum disease, these conditions are endless and affect overall oral health. Sometimes, these dental problems affect one’s self-confidence and result in low self-esteem. 

Most dental conditions result from poor oral hygiene, certain lifestyles like smoking and poor nutrition. The good news is, you can easily avoid many dental conditions by improving your oral hygiene and visiting a nearest dental hygienist regularly for dental cleanings. 

Here are some common dental issues and specific ways to prevent them. 

Tooth decay 

Tooth decay, also referred to as cavities, result from plaque accumulation on the teeth and combining with starch and sugar in food to produce acid which affects the enamel. Cavities can affect anyone, irrespective of age, but the risk of tooth decay increases as we age and as the enamel erodes.

Preventive measures for tooth decay 

• Floss regularly, at least once daily 
• Brush often, a minimum of two times daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush
• Reduce the intake of sugary beverages and foods
• Eat balanced diets
• Schedule regular appointments with a dentist and dental hygienist 
• Use the right brushing technique 

Bad breath 

Halitosis is another name for bad breath, and it is embarrassing to have a smelly mouth. Bad breath occurs due to several conditions such as cavities, bacteria present on the tongue, dry mouth, oral cancer, and gum diseases. Bad breath usually affects self-confidence and causes low self-esteem because it makes talking and laughing difficult. 

Prevention of bad breath 

You can avoid bad breath by flossing and brushing your teeth. Using a mouthwash can also temporarily remove the odour, you need to visit your dentist to find a suitable solution for bad breath 

Stained teeth 

If you don’t take proper care of your teeth and clean them thoroughly after every meal, food particles may remain on your teeth, causing stains and discolouration. Certain lifestyles like smoking and drinking excess coffee can also stain your teeth. 

Prevention of stained teeth

• Use a teeth whitening toothpaste to clean your teeth 
• Brush after you eat 
• Scrub your teeth gently 
• Use an antibacterial mouthwash 
• Rinse your mouth regularly 
• When taking beverages and coffee, use a straw
• Brush your teeth with an electric toothbrush 

Periodontal disease 

Periodontal disease, also referred to as gum disease is an infection of the gums and the teeth. Gum disease usually results from lack of care on the teeth and allowing food particles to accumulate on the teeth, giving the bacteria in the mouth something to feed on. The bacterium then attacks the gum, causing bleeding and pain, which require immediate attention from a dentist. 

Prevention of periodontal disease 

• Use a mouthwash 
• Clean your tongue using a tongue scraper

• Brush your teeth after each meal
• Floss a minimum of once every day 
• Schedule an appointment with a periodontist 
• Ensure you clean your gum line and between your teeth 

Mouth sores 

Mouth sores are ulcers affecting the tongue, cheeks, lips, soft palate, the bottom of the mouth, and soft palate. It may result from poor diet, hormonal changes, certain viral infection, gastrointestinal diseases, and stress. 

Different types of mouth sores exist, they include the cold cores which affect the edges of the outer part of the lips and canker sores, affecting inside the mouth. These sores are usually not deadly, except them last for more than one week. 

Prevention of mouth sores 

• Avoid hot beverages and foods
• Avoid or limit the intake of spicy and hot foods
• Avoid stressful activities 
• Eat balanced diets and take a lot of water 
• Brush the teeth gently using a toothbrush with soft bristles
• Chew food slowly to avoid biting your tongue and lips

These dental problems are a few common conditions that affect people. With good oral hygiene, you can avoid these dental conditions. Take a lot of water, have nutritious meals, and you can avoid most of these dental conditions.

Ensure you schedule regular appointments with your dental hygienist and dentist to improve your oral health. If you have not cleaned your teeth in a while, schedule an appointment with www.dentalhygienist.london today to get your teeth cleaned by a professional. 

Feel free to call 020 3137 5055 to book your dental cleaning appointment.