Which is the most common oral disease?

Dental caries commonly known as tooth decay or cavities are the most common oral disease. They are caused by a combination of factors including bacteria in your mouth, frequent snacking, sipping sugar-containing drinks, and not cleaning your teeth well. There is no way to cure a cavity once formed, particularly if it has reached the inner dentin layer of your tooth. The only way to get rid of the cavity is to take your dentists’ help. The Dentist would remove the damaged area for you and perform a filling procedure. Untreated tooth decay can lead to an infection in the tooth called a tooth abscess. Untreated will also destroy the tooth pulp. This may require more extensive treatment or possible removal of the tooth. Sugars and starches increase the risk of tooth decay.

Why should we be proud of our mouth?

We must keep our mouths as healthy as possible. A healthy mouth improves the quality of our life. An unhealthy mouth not only impacts general health but can have a severe impact on people’s social, emotional, mental, and overall physical well-being. People should be proud of their mouths for their happiness and well-being.

What is a good oral hygiene routine?

Brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day. This helps to remove food and plaques which if not removed can lead to tooth decay and gum infections. You need to brush every surface of your tooth. These tries may play a major part in preventing tooth decay or dental caries.

What is oral submucous fibrosis?

This leads to a leathery texture of the lining of the mouth that includes the pharynx, uvula, and tongue. This leads to the progressive reduction of mouth opening and a shrunken uvula. A marked increase in the incidence of submucous fibrosis has been observed even in young The world oral health day is observed on the 20th of March every year. This annual day spreads many important messages related to good oral hygiene practices for the young and old population of the world. This year the theme is to be proud of your mouth. This day illustrates the importance of oral health in maintaining general health and well-being. may include the inner and outer surfaces of your teeth and your chewing surface. Use fluoride toothpaste as fluoride plays a key role against tooth decay. Do not rinse with water straight after brushing. Spit out any excess toothpaste instead. Replace your toothbrush every 3 months. An old toothbrush will not be effective enough. Floss your teeth daily. Regular cleaning helps to dislodge food and may reduce gum disease and bad breath.

What according to you is the most impact-full decision that one can ever take when it comes to oral hygiene?

Besides the fact that brushing your teeth for 2 minutes twice daily, avoids excessive sweets, sugar, and pas-women. This is due to widespread marketing of commercial tobacco and Areca nut products generally known as Gutkha, which is sold in single-use packets. Thousands of individuals from our continent suffer from this premalignant condition. What is the connection between our oral health and general health? Our mouth is the entry point for many bacteria and viruses which may be pathogenic, systemic conditions like diabetes and heart diseases are also associated with oral health problems like tooth loss and periodontitis. By regular examination of the face and teeth, osteoporosis and musculoskeletal disorders can be diagnosed. In patients with gum diseases and bleeding gums, infectious oral bacteria can pass into blood vessels and be carried to the heart. Poor oral hygiene may increase the risk of aspiration of oral bacteria and potentially lead to respiratory diseases.

What about diabetes and oral hygiene?

Diabetes is a major risk factor for periodontitis. Research has shown that periodontal therapy is associated with improvements in glycemic control and oral health is a key aspect of diabetes management. What about immune-related disorders? Oral thrush is an important presentation of reduced immunity. This is more common in asthmatics who use inhalers. People on long-term steroids are also susceptible. The most dangerous however is in those infected with the HIV virus.

What about frequent ulcers in the oral cavity?

This is common in those suffering from anemias due to deficiency of iron, B12, or other vitamins. Certain autoimmune disorders like lichen plants, pemphigous, or drugs used in autoimmune disorders can also cause severe oral ulcers. Certain drugs like Amlodepin can cause swelling of your gums. Let us all celebrate World Oral Health Day today. We should inculcate all good habits that should make us proud of our mouths. Brushing teeth for two minutes twice daily, avoiding betel nuts, tobacco and smoking are important. At least an annual visit to your dentist is strongly recommended.