Do you have bleeding, pain, or other unusual symptoms in your mouth? Oral pathology in Coral Springs, FL, can help you find the answers you need. This field of dentistry focuses on diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the mouth, teeth, gums, tongue, and other oral tissues. Moreover, an oral pathologist is trained to identify and treat minor infections to serious diseases.
What Are the Most Common Oral Health Conditions?
Cavities
Did you know that about a quarter of American adults aged 20 to 64 have untreated cavities? Cavities result from a bacterial infection called tooth decay. Furthermore, cavities form when the tooth enamel breaks down due to acid-forming bacteria in plaque that builds up on teeth after eating and drinking foods high in carbohydrates. An untreated cavity can cause a severe infection or abscess under the gums that could spread to other body parts.
Gum Disease
Statistics show that around four in 10 adults in the United States aged 30 years or older had gum disease at some point. This condition results from infections and inflammation of the gum tissue and bone that hold the teeth in place.
While the early forms of gum disease are reversible, advanced forms aren’t. Advanced gum disease involves severe gum infection, jawbone degeneration, and loose teeth that may require extraction. Risk factors for gum disease include tobacco use, heredity, and poor oral hygiene. Furthermore, chronic conditions, including a compromised immune system and diabetes, increase one’s risk for gum disease.
Oral Cancer
While nearly 45,000 new cases of oral cancer were diagnosed in the United States in 2016, over 10,000 people lost their lives to this disease. Additionally, men are nearly three times more likely to die of oral cancers than women. Cancer of the oral cavity and pharynx has a five-year survival rate of 61%.
Although early detection is key to increasing the survival rate, oral cancer prevention is even better. Individuals can reduce their risk of oral cancers by avoiding tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption.
Looking for an Expert in Oral Pathology in Coral Springs, FL?
At Oral Facial Reconstruction, we’re committed to helping you get the treatment you need. Contact us today to make an appointment.
