Our mouths host millions of bacterial cells; some are beneficial, while others can be very harmful. Bacteria is only one cause of the many oral diseases that can affect the different areas of our mouths. Some of the most common dental diseases include, but are not limited to:
Periodontal Disease
If you’ve been diagnosed with periodontal disease, you need to take better care of your gums. Also known as gum disease, this common dental problem is usually the result of neglecting to floss your teeth on a regular basis. The buildup of plaque-causing bacteria eventually leads to the development of gingivitis or periodontitis, the first stages of periodontal disease.
Symptoms of Periodontal Disease
-Gums that bleed after brushing, flossing, or eating crunchy foods
-Tender, painful, swollen gums
-Enlarging space between teeth
-Frequent mouth sores
The good news is, periodontal disease can be treated through over the course of a few dental appointments. Deep teeth cleanings will be required to remove the plaque and tartar buildup in and around your gums. This procedure can be painful to some people but is usually spread out over a number of sessions.
Tooth Decay & Cavities
One of the most common dental diseases is tooth decay, which affects millions of children and adults worldwide. The development of cavities is the result of tooth decay caused by a failure to brush your teeth after consuming sizeable quantities of sugary and acidic foods and beverages. These substances perforate the enamel, which later allows the proliferation of cavity-causing bacteria.
Diabetes
Although diabetes is not a Common dental disease in and of itself, many studies suggest a relationship between diabetes and oral health problems. Surprisingly, advanced gum disease leads to issues with blood sugar control, which can cause Type 2 diabetes in some people. Vice versa, people who suffer from diabetes may have weakened immunity, making them susceptible to bacterial infections in the mouth.
Dental-Related Symptoms of Diabetes
-Blood sugar dysregulation caused by periodontal disease
-Halitosis due to ketosis (production of ketones for fuel when sugar is deficient)
-Dry mouth