Dental Health pictures

Besides smiling, laughing, and communicating, the mouth and serve important functions in the body. Teeth and saliva break down food, making it easier for the stomach to process it further for absorption by the intestines. The teeth provide structural support for the face. The mouth and throat contain immune cells that help protect the body against pathogens. Taking good care of the mouth and teeth is an essential part of maintaining good health. Here is a guide to some common oral health problems and procedures.

Abscessed Tooth

An abscessed tooth occurs when an infection moves up tooth pulp and settles into the root near the jaw bone and forms a swollen, pus-filled area.

Abscessed Tooth Symptoms

• Bad breath
• Fever
• Gum redness
• Pain
• Swelling

An untreated tooth may lead to a dangerous infection of the jaw bone and other tissues.

Abscessed Tooth Treatment

Treatment of a tooth abscess depends on the extent of the infection. Some abscesses may be treated with antibiotics or drainage. In cases in which a cavity or a cracked tooth has exposed the pulp, a root canal may be necessary to treat the abscessed tooth.

Cavities (Tooth Decay)

Cavities are areas of damaged tooth enamel that form when acid erodes away at a tooth.

What Causes Cavities?

Bacteria are normally present on teeth as plaque. Bacteria produce acid as a byproduct from feeding on in the diet. The acid produced then erodes the enamel and exposes dentin that, in turn, can become pitted and result in a cavity.

How to Prevent and How to Get Rid of Cavities

Good dental hygiene that includes brushing, flossing, and regular teeth cleanings, can help prevent cavities. Treatment of a cavity depends on the extent of the tooth decay. A small or superficial cavity may be treated with a filling. Larger cavities may require more extensive drilling to remove decay and then placement of a over the remaining portion of the tooth. Decay that extends to the tooth pulp may require root canal treatment.

• (A) A small spot of decay visible on the surface of a tooth.
• (B) The radiograph reveals an extensive region of demineralization within the dentin (arrows).
• (C) A hole is discovered on the side of the tooth at the beginning of decay removal.
• (D) All decay removed.

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a cap that is placed over a damaged tooth to make it stronger or to improve its appearance. Crowns may be placed over a tooth that has a very large filling or one that is cracked. A crown may also be placed in order to serve as support for a dental . Sometimes a crown is used to disguise an ill-shaped or stained tooth. Dental crowns are available in a variety of materials including porcelain (ceramic), porcelain and metal, metal alloy, and more.

What Is a Dry Socket?

A dry socket is a condition that may result after a tooth extraction if the blood clot that normally fills the socket is lost. The dry socket leaves underlying nerves exposed, which is very painful.

Dry Socket Symptoms

• Whitish bone rather than a blood clot where a tooth was pulled
• Pain beginning about two days after tooth was pulled
• Severe pain that radiates to the ear
• An unpleasant taste

Dry Socket Treatment

The condition is treated by a dentist who cleans the wound and places a special dressing into the socket. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen may be used to treat pain and decrease swelling.

What Is Gum Disease (Gingivitis)?

Gum disease (gingivitis) is inflammation of the gums. It is caused by plaque-producing bacteria that build up on the teeth.

Gingivitis Symptoms

• Gum recession
• Painful, red, swollen, bleeding gums

Severe gum inflammation that spreads to the bones and ligaments that support teeth is called periodontitis and can lead to tooth loss. Lack of good oral hygiene increases the risk of gingivitis., , pregnancy, genetic factors, and certain medications also increase the risk of gum disease.

Gingivitis Treatment

Gum disease is reversible when it is treated in the earlier stages. Regular brushing, flossing, and special dental cleanings and treatments can help prevent and treat gum disease.

Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)

Saliva lubricates teeth and other tissues in the mouth and helps guard against infection and gum disease. results from a decreased production of saliva.