Having good oral health is essential for overall well-being. It not only helps prevent oral diseases but also contributes to better overall health. Maintaining healthy teeth and gums can prevent issues such as bad breath, cavities, and gum disease.
Teeth should not be wiggly but firmly attached to the gingiva and bone. Most often the body’s defenses and good oral care keep germs under control. Without good oral hygiene, germs can reach levels that might lead to infections, such as tooth decay and gum disease. As the CEO of a dental healthcare and orthodontics organization committed to providing quality care to over 100 underserved communities, I have seen the difficulties of medical care and dental care functioning in silos firsthand.
Scientists are still learning how frequently Fusobacterium nucleatum appears in colorectal tumors. The amount of Fusobacterium nucleatum in tissue and stool is greater in people with late-stage colorectal cancer than those in earlier stages. “It’s been reported in numerous studies that not just in colorectal cancer, but also esophageal cancer, gastric cancer—the kinds that are implicated with F. Nucleatum—they have a worse prognosis, shorter survival time, chemoresistance, more metastasis, things like that,” Han said. But sometimes, certain hardy bacteria can leave the mouth and travel throughout the body. Depending on where they land, they can spur cancer and cause all sorts of other problems.
A filling is used to repair a cavity, crack, or hole in the tooth. The dentist will first use a drill to remove the damaged area of the tooth and then fill the hole with some material, such as amalgam or composite. Shop for toothpaste and mouthwash made for people with sensitive teeth.
Regular Dental Check-ups
If your dentist finds any abnormal lumps, lesions, or growths in your mouth, they may perform a gum biopsy. During a biopsy, a small piece of tissue is removed from the growth or lesion. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for examination under a microscope to check for cancerous cells. Your dentist might tap or scrape at your teeth with various tools or instruments to assist with a diagnosis. A technician at the dentist’s office will take dental X-rays of your mouth, making sure to get an image of each of your teeth.
Your dentist may recommend a sealant for your children as soon as they get their first molars, at around age six, and again when they get their second set of molars around age 12. If you show signs of a gum infection or you have a tooth abscess that has spread to other teeth or your jaw, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to help get rid of the infection. The antibiotic may be in the form of a mouth rinse, gel, oral tablet, or capsule. Topical antibiotic gel may also be applied to the teeth or gums during surgical procedures.
One of the best ways to ensure good oral health is by scheduling regular check-ups with your dentist. These appointments allow professionals to detect any potential issues early on and provide appropriate treatment. Dentists can also offer advice on proper oral hygiene practices.
Healthy Habits
In addition to regular check-ups, practicing good oral hygiene at home is crucial. This includes brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash. Eating a balanced diet and avoiding sugary foods can also help maintain healthy oral habits.
By taking care of your oral health, you are not only preserving your smile but also protecting your overall health. Remember, prevention is key when it comes to maintaining a healthy mouth!
