Oral-mouth disease can affect people of all ages, races, and sexes. Although anyone can get it, certain behaviors and hygiene practices greatly influence the likelihood of getting an oral disease. Like all diseases, treatment is typically easier if the disease is identified and treated in its early stages.
Frequency
According to the National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, over 30,000 cases of oral and pharyngeal cancer are reported annually. Eight-thousand deaths occur each year from oral cancer alone. The five-year survival rate for oral and pharyngeal cancer is only about 50 percent.
Types
Numerous types of oral diseases exist. According to Hc-sc.gc.ca, the following are all oral diseases: cavities, gum disease, gingivitis, periodontal disease, and oral cancer. Some oral diseases are less dangerous than others. For example, cavities can be filled, whereas oral cancer can be treated, but may result in death.
Symptoms
Symptoms of oral disease differ, depending on the person and what type of disease is present. Symptoms of cavities include pain and sensitivity. Gingivitis is the first stage in gum disease. Hc-sc.gc.ca lists the symptoms as being red, swollen gums, pain, blood on the user's toothbrush or dental floss, and continuous bad breath. Symptoms of periodontal disease, an advancement of gingivitis, are the same as the gingivitis symptoms, only more advanced with gum recession and teeth loosening according to Umm.edu. Oral-cancer symptoms include abnormal growths anywhere on the lips, gums, tongue, or inside of the mouth.
Prevention
Preventing oral disease consists of proper oral-hygiene techniques. The American Dental Association stresses the importance of visiting a dentist on a regular basis for cleanings and checkups, as well as brushing at least twice a day. They also recommend flossing daily, eating a well-balanced diet, and limiting between-meal snacks. In order to keep a healthy mouth, smoking and the consumption of alcohol are not recommended. If these easy steps are followed, one's chance of getting an oral disease is decreased.
Treatment
Treatment of oral diseases are dependent of the type of disease, the patient, and the severity of the disease. Treatments for cavities include the removal of the decayed area, and the filling of the hole with either an amalgam or composite filling. According to handsonhealth.com gum-disease treatments include scaling and root planning, taking pills to slow tissue destruction, the use of oral antibiotics and rinses, and surgery to remove infected areas. Hands on Health lists three oral- cancer treatments. These include surgery to remove oral tumors, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
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