Infections in the mouth are notoriously common; past studies have found that nearly half of American adults have some form of gum disease, and the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial research estimates that 92% of adults have had at least one cavity in their permanent teeth. At first, these health issues might seem like minor annoyances, but if left untreated they can lead to tooth loss – or worse. Here’s what you need to know about different kinds of dental infections – and how to avoid the problems they cause.
What Kind of Dental Infections are There?
Your mouth is warm, moist and in the dark most of the time, making it a great place for bacteria to thrive. These bacteria can cause all sorts of damage:
- Tooth decay occurs when the acids produced by bacteria eats through the enamel, leading to cavities. The infection can eventually reach the pulp of the tooth, resulting in a lot of pain; at that point, it’ll need to be treated with a root canal therapy or an extraction.
- Gum disease, or periodontal disease, describes an infection of the gums. The earliest form is gingivitis that is characterized by bleeding, swollen gums; if untreated, it can become periodontitis and eventually lead to tooth loss.
- A tooth abscess or a gum abscess can be the result of a tooth or gum infection that goes unchecked. An abscess is a pocket of bacteria-filled pus; if the infection is left alone, it will eventually spread to other body parts. In some circumstances, this condition can be fatal.
These infections will require a trip to the emergency dentist. Fortunately, treatment is often much easier in the early stages. With that being said, however, it’s best to prevent infections altogether.
How Can I Avoid Dental Infections?
Fortunately, there are many ways you can control the bacteria levels in your mouth and prevent infections:
- Brush at least twice a day, and brush well. Use a fluoride toothpaste that’s more effective at removing plaque. Don’t forget to brush near the gumline; bacteria can often accumulate in this area. Pay extra attention to the back teeth as well, as that’s where cavities are the most common.
- Floss daily to clean the gap between every tooth. Some people may have difficulty using traditional dental floss, so consider water picks or interdental brushes that may make it easier to reach certain spaces.
- Use mouthwash to help reduce plaque levels and wash out any food particles that were missed during brushing and flossing.
- Be wary of consuming sugary foods and drinks that can encourage plaque buildup.
- Keep up your biannual dentist appointments.
It’s important to remember that to avoid infections, good oral hygiene is a daily necessity; make sure your bathroom is well stocked with dental supplies make sure to stick with your routine while traveling. You can also speak with your dentist about behaviors to change or avoid. Don’t let the bacteria in your mouth turn into an emergency!
About the Author
Dr. Andrew Nawrocki is a graduate of the University of Florida College of Dentistry. He is highly involved in the dental community, belonging to the Florida Dental Association and the International Congress of Oral Implantology. In addition to preventive services, he offers swift treatment in the case of a dental emergency. To schedule an appointment at his practice, Brown and Nawrocki, visit his website or call (386) 677-1046.