Oral health is essential for the overall well-being of an individual. Poor oral hygiene can lead to various diseases and infections.

Therefore, it is crucial to maintain good oral health habits and regularly visit a dentist to receive the necessary preventive measures and treatments to tackle oral health diseases.

Cavities (Tooth Decay)

Cavities or tooth decay is one of the most common oral health diseases caused by bacteria present in the plaque that damages the tooth enamel and creates holes or cavities in the teeth.

The symptoms of cavities include tooth sensitivity, toothache, visible holes in teeth, and discoloration. Poor dietary habits, frequent snacking, sugary foods, and drinks can increase the risk of developing cavities.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis, also known as gum disease, is a bacterial infection that affects the gums. It is caused mainly by poor oral hygiene, and the symptoms include red, swollen, and bleeding gums.

If left untreated, it can lead to periodontitis, which can cause tooth loss and bone damage.

Periodontitis

Periodontitis is a severe gum disease that occurs when gingivitis is left untreated. It affects the supporting tissues and bones that hold the teeth in place, leading to tooth loss.

The symptoms of periodontitis include bleeding gums, receding gums, persistent bad breath, loose teeth, and changes in the bite.

Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is a deadly disease that affects the mouth and throat. It can affect the lips, tongue, cheeks, tonsils, and other tissues.

The symptoms of oral cancer include mouth sores that do not heal, tongue pain, difficulty swallowing, and changes in the voice. Risk factors for oral cancer include tobacco and alcohol use, a weakened immune system, and exposure to sunlight.

Oral Thrush

Oral thrush is a fungal infection caused by the overgrowth of yeast in the mouth. It can cause creamy white lesions on the tongue, gums, and inner cheeks. The symptoms of oral thrush include pain, discomfort, and difficulty swallowing.

Herpes Labialis (Cold Sores)

Cold sores, also known as herpes labialis, are caused by the herpes simplex virus. Cold sores are contagious and can spread through direct contact with the blisters. These sores can cause pain, itching, and burning sensations.

They usually occur on the lips or around the mouth. Stress, sunlight, and fever can trigger cold sore outbreaks.

Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth are the last molars that grow at the back of the mouth in late adolescence or early adulthood.

Sometimes, if there is not enough space in the mouth, a wisdom tooth can become impacted, which means that it does not fully emerge from the gums. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause pain, swelling, and infections. A dentist may recommend removing the impacted teeth to prevent further complications.

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ)

Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) is a condition that affects the temporomandibular joint, which is the joint that connects the jawbone to the skull. It can cause pain and discomfort in the jaw, face, and neck.

The symptoms of TMJ include jaw locking, clicking, and difficulty opening the mouth. TMJ can be caused by teeth grinding, arthritis, and jaw injuries.

Canker Sores

Canker sores are small and painful ulcers that appear in the mouth, including the tongue, cheeks, and gums. The cause of canker sores is not clear, but they are not contagious. They usually heal within a few days to a few weeks.

Dental Abscess

A dental abscess is a bacterial infection that affects the teeth or gums. It can cause severe pain, swelling, and redness around the affected area. If left untreated, it can lead to serious infections and complications.

A dentist may recommend draining the abscess and prescribing antibiotics to treat the infection.