Tooth & Mouth Disorders

Tooth & Mouth Disorders

An encyclopedia could be written on the various disorders of the mouth and teeth. Except for injuries, and fractured teeth, many of these problems can be helped by good oral hygiene, brushing and flossing. Smoking is often implicated in mouth problems like bad breath and dry mouth, and other problems may be side effects of medications.
Recently Answered
Q Should I talk to my doctor about my temporomandibular disorder symptoms?
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If you have frequent headaches, earaches, tender jaw muscles, dull, aching facial pain or feel like your jaw locks or strays to one side when you open your mouth, you could be suffering from TMD. These aches and pains may be related to the jaw joint,... Full Answer
Q How common is temporomandibular disorder (TMD)?
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If you have frequent headaches, earaches, tender jaw muscles, dull, aching facial pain or feel like your jaw locks or strays to one side when you open your mouth, you could be suffering from TMD. These aches and pains may be related to jaw joint, called... Full Answer
Q What causes mouth sores?
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Mouth sores can be caused by oral cancer or bacterial, viral or fungal infections. Some other causes include: Irritations, such as dentures that no longer fit properly and rub against tissues. Loose orthodontic wires or the sharp edge of a broken... Full Answer
Q What medications can cause mouth sores?
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Some medications have been linked to the development of oral sores, inflammation or discoloration of the soft tissues in the mouth. These medications include those prescribed for blood pressure control, immunosuppressive agents, oral... Full Answer
Q How can abnormal tooth position cause receding gums?
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One of the main causes of gum recession is an irregular or abnormal tooth position. A tooth may protrude because it was crowded when permanent teeth began to push through the gums. As a result, inadequate jaw bone covers the tooth's root. The... Full Answer
Q How is gum graft surgery performed?
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Soft-tissue graft surgery (called gingival or gum grafts) helps create more attached gum to prevent gum recession from progressing and to help regenerate and re-establish root coverage. During a tissue graft, the dentist removes a thin piece of... Full Answer
Q How does a dentist diagnose mouth sores?
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Schedule an appointment with your dentist if you notice any change in your mouth, including pain or discomfort, or the presence of sores in the mouth, even if they are not painful. A biopsy (tissue sample taken for testing) usually can determine... Full Answer
Q Why does gum disease raise cancer risk?
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There is no conclusive research showing that gum disease raises cancer risk. Studies indicate that severe gum disease may be associated with several other health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes or stroke. However, saying that two... Full Answer
Q What causes fissured tongue?
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Fissured tongue, also known as scrotal tongue or furrowed tongue, is usually something you are born with. It's generally harmless and has no symptoms, although if the fissures are very deep, they can trap food particles that cause bad breath.... Full Answer
Q What could cause severe gum pain?
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There can be several causes of severe gum pain, including a decayed tooth, trapped food, or an abscess. If the pain isn’t constant, you might have an exposed area of decayed tooth that was irritated by a piece of food. If the pain... Full Answer