Unlike conventional health issues, oral health is usually overlooked until the problem becomes full-blown. However, oral disorders caused by poor dental hygiene can negatively impact your quality of life. Don’t wait until the dental problem necessitates an emergency dentist visit. Make yourself conversant with oral diseases, understand their effects, and take proactive preventative measures. Below are three common oral conditions you should know.

1. Dental Cavities

Dental cavities, commonly known as tooth decay, are caused by oral bacteria, snacking on sugary beverages, and improper tooth brushing. It permanently erodes the hard tooth surface, leading to small openings or holes that cause excruciating pain and tooth loss. Compared to other diseases, this dental problem is highly prevalent. According to the National Institute of Health, tooth decay is 20 times more frequent than diabetes and five times more common than childhood asthma. Schedule an emergency dentist visit once you catch a cavity for the appropriate treatment.

2. Gum Disease

Gum disease is a dangerous gum infection that harms the soft tissue surrounding the teeth. If treatment is postponed, gum disease can cause tooth loosening and potential tooth loss. Treating the disease involves thorough cleaning and using prescription drugs like antibiotics. Additionally, floss regularly and brush your teeth at least twice daily to prevent gum infections. Go for regular dental checkups to detect the problem well in advance. Otherwise, you might have to seek costly emergency services when it’s too late.

3. Oral Cancers

The American Cancer Society estimates over 54,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral cancer in 2023. Oral cancer usually affects the tongue, tonsils, gums, and oropharynx. Regular dental exams are the most effective way to detect oral infections because the telltale signs and symptoms aren’t obvious in the early stages. The dentist checks for oral cancer, especially if you exhibit signs like a lip or mouth sore that won’t go away, a lump, or a white or red spot inside your mouth.

Good dental health starts with simple measures like brushing your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss to curtail plaque formation. Additionally, you can prevent dental caries by going for regular dental examinations and replacing sugary foods with healthy food. If you detect an abnormality, don’t hesitate to schedule an emergency dentist appointment. Get in touch with Mountain View Dentistry today to learn more.