Other Oral Health Issues
Apart from gingivitis and periodontitis, your patients might be likely to have dental caries or halitosis, some common oral health conditions with possible medical and social implications.
I. Dental caries
Dental caries or cavities are a result of progressive decay of the enamel. Enamel has a high percentge of minerals (96%), which makes it one of the hardest in the human body. The primary mineral is hydroxyapatite (crystalline calcium phosphate) and the high mineral content of enamel also makes it susceptible to a demineralization process Demineralization occurs for several reasons, but the most important cause of tooth decay is the ingestion of fermentable carbohydrates. Anaerobic Bacteria, in particular Streptococcus Mutants, produce lactic acid, which decreases the pH on the tooth’s surface.
Management of dental caries
As dental caries are irreversible, patients must be encouraged to visit their dental profession as soon as possible. Pain only occurs once decay reaches inside of the tooth which might delay a patient to seek treatment.
Where tooth can be saved? | Where tooth can’t be saved |
Decayed area removed by drilling Tooth filled Root canal treatment may be required | Tooth extracted Replacement fitted (bridge, implant, denture) |
II. Halitosis
Halitosis or Oral Malodour is also known as “bad breath”, which most people experience especially in the mornings.
Intraoral causes | Extraoral causes |
Biofilm on the back of tongue Poor oral hygiene Plaque build-up along the gum line Decrease in salivary flow Mouth and throat problems | Eating foods with strong odour (garlic, onion) Smoking or using tobacco Systemic disease |
Management of Halitosis
Mouthwashes containing chlorohexidine or zinc are effective in reducing malodour. Zinc in oxidation of thiol groups reduce sulfuric compounds exhaled in air by up to 45%. Lifestyle factors are important in treatment of halitosis. Limiting amount of fats, proteins, or alcoholic beverage significantly reduces bad breath. It has been suggested that malodour can be treated by reducing patient’s BMI. Obesity is associated with sleep apnea which causes dry mouth and eventually bad breath.