Good hygiene should be the topmost priority of every individual here on earth. As a person, we have the responsibility to keep ourselves clean and healthy at all times. It would also do others a favor if they do not smell any offensive odors coming from us.

Oral hygiene is one of the most important aspects of health that we should focus on. Aside from keeping our confidence, good oral hygiene makes it easier for us to smile and establish rapport with other people. If we do not take care of our mouth and teeth, it can lead to oral diseases.

Here are some mouth problems that you should need to watch out for.

Canker sore

Canker sores can be a real pain. It can also prevent you from eating comfortably. Canker sores mysteriously appears anywhere in and around the mouth on movable tissues. Up until now the cause for its development is not yet known, although dental experts believe that it is mainly an autoimmune response of the body to stress, injury to the area and underlying diseases. Canker sores usually heal on their own but there are several medications and topical ointments that can be taken or applied respectively. You may use a topical anesthetic to lessen the pain, and/or anti-bacterial or anti-viral ointments to hasten wound healing.

Bad breath / Halitosis

Bad breath can be caused by a multitude of conditions. For instance, dry mouth and decreased saliva can cause bad breath. Eating too much sulfur-producing foods can also cause an odor in the mouth. Cavities and tooth decay can also be a cause of bad breath. Poor oral hygiene allows the bacteria to grow in the mouth, thereby, causing bad breath. Also known as halitosis, serious cases can be caused by underlying conditions in the upper respiratory tract, stomach and esophagus. One example is tonsilloliths (tonsil stones). Bacteria that stays at the back of the tongue as well as below the gumline can also be a reason bad breath.

Bleeding Gums

Bleeding gums are usually caused by gingivitis. It usually starts with redness and irritation followed by gum inflammation. Gingivitis is a mild periodontal disease commonly caused by poor oral hygiene. This can be remedied by brushing teeth regularly for at least two minutes after every meal, flossing and gargling with antiseptic mouth wash. As an alternative, you can also gargle with warm water mixed with a little salt. It is important to treat gingivitis as soon as possible to prevent serious conditions and eventually, tooth loss.

Dry Mouth

Dry mouth can be due to dehydration or side effects of medications. If the mouth remains dry all the time, it can lead to teeth problems as well as bad breath. To prevent this from happening, drink enough water everyday.

Some of these mouth problems may be simply annoying. Nevertheless, all of the conditions mentioned above should be given prompt attention and care. Do not wait for complications to appear before finally deciding to seek medical attention for these conditions.

Photo credit: Giuliamar on Pixabay