Oral Health Awareness

Oral diseases take many shapes and forms, with the most common being tooth decay and gum disease. 

If not properly managed they can negatively impact the rest of your body. Which is why oral health is essential to general health and wellbeing at every stage of life. 

Oral diseases and chronic diseases can be decreased simultaneously by addressing these common risk factors:

• Decrease your intake of sugars and form a well-balanced nutritional diet.
• Decrease alcohol and tobacco consumption to reduce the risk for oral cancers, gum diseas and tooth loss.
• Eating fruits and vegetables will protect against oral cancers.
• Prevent facial injuries by always using protective sport and vehicle safety gear.
• Long-term exposure to an optimal level of fluoride results in fewer cavities in both children and adults.
By using these prevention strategies, you can avoid the high costs of dental treatments.

Details: southafricandentalassociation.co.za

Halitosis is an unpleasant and persistent smell on your breath. It’s caused by the build-up of bacteria in the mouth caused by food debris, plaque, gum disease or coating on the tongue.

Other causes of persistent bad breath are due to certain health problems or medicines but these causes are uncommon.

To maintain good breath: 

• Eat a balanced diet and cut down on fizzy drinks.
• Drink less alcohol, stop smoking and cut down on coffee.
• Drink plenty of water to help prevent a dry mouth.
• Chew sugar-free gum after eating to stimulate the flow of saliva.
• Sometimes bacteria can be removed only by professional cleaning. Your dentist might also recommend replacing faulty tooth restorations, which can be a breeding ground for bacteria.
• If you have gum disease, you may be referred to a gum specialist (periodontist). Gum disease cause the gums to pull away from the teeth, leaving pockets that accumulate odour-causing bacteria.

Details:clicks.co.za/health/conditions/article-view/halitosis