The good news is that most oral diseases are preventable, including tooth decay, gum disease and mouth cancer. But they still affect nearly 3.5 billion people globally, according to the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021, and can lead to pain, disability, poor health outcomes and even death. Oral health conditions can also be linked to some other health issues, such as heart disease, osteoporosis, respiratory illnesses and some cancers.

Tooth decay is the most common dental problem and it’s usually caused by a combination of factors: bacteria in your mouth feed on sugars and starches found in foods like bread, candy, soda and juice, then produce acids that attack tooth enamel. If you have poor oral hygiene, these acids may continue to attack your teeth for an extended period of time, eventually destroying them.

Flossing and brushing your teeth daily can help reduce the risk of cavities, but regular dental visits are also important. During your visit, your dentist will clean and polish your teeth and probe the inside of your mouth for signs of trouble. He or she may recommend fluoride treatments, sealants, mouth rinses and/or dental fillings based on your needs.

In addition to cavities, your dentist can treat broken and cracked teeth. A broken tooth often causes a lot of pain, so you should call your your local dentist in Northbrook, IL right away if you experience one. Your dentist may be able to repair the break with a crown, veneer or gum graft, or a root canal.

Gum disease can cause severe tooth loss, and it is also associated with heart disease, diabetes and other health problems. If you have a lot of plaque on your teeth, you may develop gum disease that results in inflammation and bleeding. Gum disease can also result in infections that spread to the bones of your jaw (periodontitis) and into the bloodstream (sepsis).

Tooth sensitivity, which is pain when you touch your teeth with hot or cold objects, is typically caused by the enamel layer wearing down. You can get special toothpastes or mouthwashes to help prevent this issue, and you can also use a dental abrasive to remove the enamel layer that has worn down.

Oral cancer is an aggressive disease that can kill if not treated early. It can affect any part of the mouth, and it’s a serious threat for smokers and those who drink a lot of alcohol. It’s important to visit your dentist regularly and report any sores or lumps that you notice.

While it’s important to focus on diseases that can cause death, we should not ignore other disorders that can have a major impact on quality of life. Tooth decay, gum disease, and other untreated oral health issues can lead to poor overall health, and that’s why oral health is such an important topic in public health. The good news is that most oral diseases are easily prevented through routine dental care and regular checkups. If you have any questions about your oral health, please give us a call!