Things you should know in the New Year

Overtime, poor teeth brushing practices can contribute to decay. Photo BY RACHEL MABALA

Since the start of the year, this column has addressed several dental health issues. Readers have also raised a number of concerns regarding their oral health. Today, we highlight the common problems that continue to affect people and how they can be managed.

Tooth decay
Also known as dental caries, this is the most common oral-related disease. Tooth decay is caused by poor oral hygiene practices such as failure to brush teeth as recommended by the dentist and consumption of foods and drinks that are high in sugar. Sugar is considered the number one enemy of teeth because the bacteria in the mouth that cause decay feed on processed sugars.

When people are exposed to such foods, they are more likely to suffer decay. It is therefore advisable that people consume natural sugars such as those got from sugarcane, apples, oranges and bananas.

Sensitive teeth
A person’s teeth become sensitive when they develop decay, gum diseases, fracture, or as a result of grinding them.
The treatment for sensitive teeth depends on the cause. In this case, a person needs to seek medical care as soon as they notice their teeth have become sensitive.

Gum disease
The most common type of gum disease, chronic marginal gingivitis, is caused by poor oral hygiene. It starts with tartar accumulating on the teeth, which turns into hard coatings that are yellowish in colour.

One way to manage the condition is through professional cleaning (scaling and polishing) by the dentist.
Bad breath
This is caused by poor oral hygiene, tooth decay, smoking, consumption of alcohol and gum disease. Band breath can be prevented through good oral health practices such as regular professional cleaning, avoiding use of alcohol and smoking.

However, some cases of bad breath can be as a result of a health condition. It is therefore important that the cause of the bad breath is established and treatment offered accordingly.

Dental check-up
Many people neglect regular dental visits, especially if they do not experience pain, yet such visits help detect any oral-related condition early enough and treated before it becomes more costly. Take advantage of the festive holiday to undergo a thorough dental examination.

The writer is a dentist
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