The key to maintaining good dental health is prevention. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, eating properly, and regular dental check-ups are essential to preventing dental problems.
We spoke to our Care Resource dental experts about the most common dental issues and how to prevent them.
#1: Bad Breath
Chronic bad breath, also called Halitosis, is something that cannot be solved with mints, mouthwash, or good brushing. Halitosis is not like “morning breath,” halitosis remains for extended amounts of time and can be a sign of more serious dental issues. These issues could be gum disease, cavities, dry mouth, or other chronic conditions.
According to Dr. Curtis Barnes, Dental Director, “a patient must be evaluated clinically to determine the cause of the chronic bad breath due to its many causes.”
#2: Tooth Decay
Tooth decay, also known as cavities, occurs when plaque combines with sugars and starches from food. If not removed through brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings, it can produce an acid that attacks tooth enamel.
Our dental experts recommend brushing twice a day, flossing daily, using mouthwash, and going to your yearly dental checkup to prevent tooth decay.
Active tooth decay can only be fixed by dentists and hygienists who use special tools to remove and repair decay. Ignoring cavities can lead to tooth loss and more serious problems.
#3: Gum Disease
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a serious infection that damages gums and can destroy the jawbone. It is one of the main causes of tooth loss among adults.
Symptoms of gum disease include bad breath, red or swollen gums, bleeding gums, sensitive teeth, and painful chewing.
The two major stages of gum disease are gingivitis and periodontitis. Regular dental check-ups along with brushing at least twice a day and flossing daily play an important role in preventing gum disease.
#4: Oral Cancer
According to The Oral Cancer Foundation, close to 54,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral or oropharyngeal cancer this year. This condition is very serious and will cause over 9,750 deaths annually.
Although this condition can be deadly, it is also curable if diagnosed and treated in the early stages. Symptoms include a sore that doesn’t heal, a lump, or a white or red patch on the inside of the mouth, and more.
Regular dental visits and screenings can help detect oral cancer early. Ask your dentist whether oral cancer screenings are part of your checkup.
#5: Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is a common problem affecting more than 3 million people in the US annually. Some causes of sensitivity are weak enamel, receding gums, or other more serious problems.
According to Dr. Curtis Barnes, Dental Director, “a visit with your dentist can help provide a solution to a patient’s sensitivity.”
Dental exams and procedures can be costly which is why dental care is integrated as part of our primary care program at Care Resource. We are committed to improving the overall quality of life of our diverse South Florida communities in need. We offer dental services at our Oakland Park and Little Havana health centers.
Our services include dental exams and radiographs, preventive services (cleanings), restorative (fillings) – composite (white) and amalgam (silver), night guards and bleaching, crown and bridge, removable prosthetics (partials and dentures), minor oral surgery, or selected root canal therapy.
Most services are provided on a sliding-fee scale that reduces the fees for those with lower incomes or the inability to pay. Call: 305.576.1234 or visit our patient portal to schedule an appointment, renew medications, and more.
