With the daily stress of everything from family worries to career conundrums, women have a lot to think about. Often, health is a core concern, but the focus can be directed at doctor’s visits, OBGYN check-ups, and other health–related areas. If neglected, another health concern can quickly arise in the form of dental issues. Below are some of the most common dental problems for women.
Bad Breath
This might seem an innocent enough issue albeit embarrassing. However, did you know 85% of people with persistent bad breath actually have a dental condition?
This is because bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be linked back to cavities, gum disease, dry mouth, oral cancer, or a buildup of bacteria on the tongue. Mouthwash merely covers up the bad breath when one of these factors is at play – it does nothing to cure the root of the problem. If this sounds like you, make an appointment to visit a dentist soon.
Tooth Decay
These dental devils are also known as cavities and they are extremely common. Cavities form when plaque combines with sugars or starches from food, producing an acid that attacks tooth enamel. Cavities come at any age – it is not an issue for adolescents only. As you develop your palate, think about what you put in your mouth and how it can erode tooth enamel. This is where standard dental care – like brushing daily and flossing –helps in prevention.
Periodontal (Gum) Disease
Of course, dental health is about more than the current state of our teeth. It also includes the health of gums. Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums surrounding teeth. It serves as the main cause of tooth loss for adults. Everyone, including women, is at risk for gum disease. It typically occurs after age 30. Risk factors include dry mouth, diabetes, and smoking.The signs of gum disease are often obvious and painful. Symptoms include red, swollen, tender, or bleeding gums, bad breath, sensitive teeth, and pain while chewing.
Gum disease comes in two stages: gingivitis and periodontitis. To prevent these issues from flaring up, the experts at hamptonsdental.com recommend scheduling regular check-ups. Your dentist plays an essential role in monitoring and preventing gum disease.
Oral Cancer
As women age, there is an increased risk for many different cancers, including oral cancer. Oral cancer is dangerous but curable if diagnosed and treated early on. It is common for people over the age of 40. For women, increased risk comes through HPV.
Symptoms include lumps, sores, and other rough areas in the mouth as well as difficulty biting or chewing. Regular visits are essential to catch this early. A good practice is to confirm with your dentist about whether or not an oral cancer exam is included in the check-up.
Mouth Sores
These dental issues are a little tricky because sometimes they are not much of an issue. If a sorelasts longer than two weeks, it is something to worry about. If it doesn’t, chances are everything is fine. Common sores are canker sores, which appear inside the mouth. It isn’t contagious and only a problem if it lasts longer than two weeks.
Herpes simplex virus can cause cold sore or fever blisters that occur on the edge of outer lips. These are contagious and tend to come and go. Mouth sores like candidiasis are actually a yeast infection of the mouth. This is common for people with diabetes, dentures, or who are undergoing cancer treatment.
Tooth Sensitivity
This is a common issue that involves pain or discomfort when teeth are exposed to ice cream, hot drinks, cold drinks, cold air, or even sweets. If teeth are highly sensitive, this discomfort can happen when brushing or flossing. Sensitive teeth are sometimes the sign of something else.
Sensitive teeth might indicate a tooth abscess or a cracked tooth, both of which have to be treated by a dentist. If it goes untreated, it can lead to tooth loss or an infection in the jawbone.
Many of the dental issues outline above are preventable, but it takes more than regular brushing and flossing. By scheduling biannual check-ups and contacting your dentist if you notice any irregularities, you’ll be able to avoid these common dental problems for women.