Most Common Diseases of the Mouth and Gums: How to Treat Them?

From bad breath to bleeding gums, oral health problems can not only be unpleasant and persistent, but if left untreated, can lead to more serious health problems. In this blog, we explore the common causes of mouth and gum disease, ways to prevent it, and the best treatment options available.

What are mouth diseases?

Oral and gum disease are diseases that affect the oral cavity, including the gums, tongue, lips and teeth. Common examples are caries, periodontitis, gingivitis, canker sores and other dental conditions. These diseases are often caused by poor oral hygiene, smoking, genetics, hormonal changes and diet.

What causes mouth disease?

Mouth diseases are the result of various factors including poor oral hygiene, infections caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi, as well as bad lifestyle habits such as smoking and alcohol consumption. Daily hygiene and regular dental care are the prevention of many dental diseases.

What are the most common mouth diseases?

The most common diseases of the mouth are dental caries, gingivitis, periodontitis, candidiasis and oral herpes. If not treated in time, these diseases caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi can lead to pain, discomfort and even tooth loss. We present a list of the 5 most common mouth diseases:

1. Tooth decay: Tooth decay is one of the most common dental problems that occurs when bacteria in the mouth break down sugars and starches, turning them into acid. Acids then eat away at tooth enamel, the protective layer of our teeth, making teeth sensitive and susceptible to decay.

2. Gingivitis: Oral gingivitis is inflammation of the gums usually caused by dental plaque - a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and corrodes them. If it is not removed in time, the plaque hardens and turns into calculus. Tartar can irritate the gums and cause their strong inflammation.

3. Periodontitis: Periodontitis is a more serious form of gum disease that can damage the bone and connective tissue that supports our teeth. Symptoms include red, swollen, painful and bleeding gums.

4. Candida: Candida is a fungal infection of the mouth. The most common symptoms of oral Candidiasis are white spots on the tongue or on the inside of the cheeks. In addition to sometimes being painful, they can also cause a burning sensation. Other symptoms may include chapped skin at the corners of the mouth, sore throat or, less commonly, difficulty swallowing.

5. Canker sores: Canker sores are small, painful sores that can appear on the tongue, gums, or inside the cheeks. They are often white or yellow in color and may be surrounded by a red area. Canker sores are caused by a variety of factors, including stress, hormones, certain foods, and allergies. Treatment of canker sores usually involves the use of over-the-counter medications to help relieve pain and heal the wound.

What is gingivitis?

Gingivitis is usually treated with thorough professional teeth cleaning and regular oral hygiene. The dentist may also recommend using a toothbrush with soft bristles or an interdental brush to help remove plaque from hard-to-reach places. Here are some more tips for successful treatment:

• Using an antibacterial mouthwash: Using an antibacterial mouthwash helps wash away food debris and bacteria that has accumulated on the teeth.

• Regular diet: A healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals can strengthen immunity and contribute to the inflammatory process.

• Avoiding tobacco: Tobacco and tobacco products reduce the amount of saliva in the mouth, which is responsible for keeping the mouth clean and eliminating harmful bacteria.

• Regular visits to the dentist: Your dentist is key in identifying and treating all early signs of mouth and gum disease.

What to rinse inflamed gums with?

Gingivitis is usually treated with thorough professional teeth cleaning and regular oral hygiene. The dentist may also recommend using a toothbrush with soft bristles or an interdental brush to help remove plaque from hard-to-reach places. Here are some more tips for successful treatment:

• Using an antibacterial mouthwash: Using an antibacterial mouthwash helps wash away food debris and bacteria that has accumulated on the teeth.

• Regular diet: A healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals can strengthen immunity and contribute to the inflammatory process.

• Avoiding tobacco: Tobacco and tobacco products reduce the amount of saliva in the mouth, which is responsible for keeping the mouth clean and eliminating harmful bacteria.

• Regular visits to the dentist: Your dentist is key in identifying and treating all early signs of mouth and gum disease.

What to rinse inflamed gums with?

Rinsing inflamed gums with a salt water solution is the most effective method for reducing inflammation and discomfort. To make the solution, add one teaspoon of salt to a cup of warm water. Swish the solution around your mouth for 30 seconds, then spit it out. For faster improvement, repeat the process several times a day.

 In addition, here are some other useful ways to rinse an inflamed mouth and gums:

• Baking Soda: A solution of baking soda and water will help neutralize acids that irritate the gums.

• Teas: Sage and chamomile teas have natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Both teas can help kill bacteria, reduce pain, and promote healing of the mouth and gums.

• Aloe vera: Due to its many beneficial effects, aloe vera is found in many mouthwashes because it contributes to keeping the mouth clean and free of bacteria, freshening breath, moisturizing the mouth, and reducing inflammation.

Why do gums bleed when brushing teeth?

Bleeding gums usually occur due to too much pressure from the brush when washing, but also due to inflammation of the gums caused by accumulated bacteria or plaque. Symptoms of gum disease are red, swollen or sensitive gums that bleed easily. Use a soft brush and visit your dentist regularly.

How to prevent gingivitis in children?

To prevent gum inflammation, it is important that children brush their teeth properly and regularly. This involves using a soft-bristled toothbrush with gentle circular motions. Also, daily flossing is mandatory to remove plaque or food particles stuck between the teeth.

Finally, we offer you some tips to help children develop good and healthy dental habits:

1. Choosing a dentist: First of all, it is important to choose a dentist who is patient with children and who will allow them to feel at ease and comfortable in the office.

2. Education: Next, parents can help by modeling good dental habits for their children and emphasizing the importance of taking care of their teeth.

3. Overcoming fear: Finally, a fun visit to the dentist by playing games or reading books in the waiting room can help them relaxsfear of the dentist, and therefore solving any acute dental problem.