Oral health is very important. It affects your smell, taste, ability to eat, speak and smile. It also affects your overall health.
Poor oral health can lead to heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and weakened immune system.
Common oral conditions include:
- Bruxism
- Bad breath
- Dry mouth
- Toothaches
- Cracked teeth
- Tooth sensitivity
- Temporomandibular disorder (TMD)
- Mouth breathing
- Gum recession
- Burning mouth
- Gingival hyperplasia
Oral diseases are more serious than oral conditions, and include:
- Gum disease
- Cavities
- Oral thrush
- Canker sores
- Dental abscess
- Oral cancer
Most of these conditions can be prevented by proper oral hygiene. Practice proper brushing, flossing, and rinsing with mouthwash and see your dentist twice a year. Your dentist should be able to diagnose early signs of oral conditions and diseases.
