What is the oral sphere and what are its main functions?
The oral sphere, commonly known as the mouth, encompasses several structures such as the lips, gums, teeth, palate, tongue and salivary glands. It plays several essential roles: mastication and preliminary digestion of food, taste perception, as well as communication and expression (speech and facial expressions).
What are the signs of poor oral health?
Symptoms of poor oral health include, but are not limited to, persistent bad breath(halitosis), red or swollen gums, bleeding when brushing or flossing, loose teeth, pain or ulcerations that don't heal. These signs may indicate conditions such as gingivitis, periodontitis or more serious infections.
How can oral diseases be prevented?
Prevention of oral diseases relies on good daily hygiene, which includes brushing teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily and rinsing with antiseptic mouthwash. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are also crucial.
How important is pH in the oral sphere?
The pH level in the mouth is vital, as an unbalanced pH can encourage the development of harmful bacteria that contribute to tooth decay and gum disease. A neutral pH is ideal for maintaining a healthy oral sphere and preventing tooth erosion and plaque formation.
What role does saliva play in oral health?
Saliva plays a crucial role in oral health by helping to moisten food, facilitating chewing and swallowing. It also contains enzymes that initiate food decomposition, and antibodies and minerals that protect against bacteria and help remineralize teeth.
How can systemic diseases affect the oral sphere?
Certain systemic diseases, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease, can have a significant impact on oral health. For example, people with diabetes have an increased risk of periodontitis due to the body's diminished ability to fight infection. In addition, chronic inflammation of the mouth can increase the risk of heart disease, due to the relationship between inflammation and atherosclerosis.
What recent advances have been made in the treatment of oral diseases?
Technological advances, such as the development of new biomimetic materials for dental implants and prostheses, and the use of laser technology for soft and hard tissue treatment, have revolutionized dental treatment. In addition, the regenerative medicine approach, including the use of stem cells to regenerate gum and tooth tissue, promises to transform oral care.
What is the link between diet and oral health?
A balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants is essential for oral health. Fiber-rich foods stimulate the production of saliva, a natural cleanser for teeth, while foods rich in calcium and phosphorus can help strengthen tooth enamel.
How does stress affect the oral sphere?
Stress can have a negative impact on oral health by encouraging teeth grinding(bruxism), which can cause enamel wear and increase the risk of dental fractures. In addition, stress can weaken the immune system and increase vulnerability to oral infections.
What innovations in oral care can we expect in the coming years?
The future of oral care is promising, with the increasing integration of artificial intelligence for the early diagnosis of oral diseases, improved materials used in dental care, and the development of new technologies.tion of artificial intelligence to diagnose oral diseases at an early stage, improvements in the materials used for dental care, and increased accessibility to quality treatment thanks to teledentistry, enabling remote consultations.
What are the symptoms and causes of dry mouth?
Dry mouth, or xerostomia, manifests itself as a lack of sufficient saliva in the mouth. Symptoms include a feeling of dryness or stickiness in the mouth, difficulty swallowing, speaking or chewing, and increased sensitivity to oral infections and tooth decay. The causes can be varied: medications, systemic diseases such as diabetes, radiotherapy treatments in the cervical region or chemotherapy.
How important is fluoride for dental health, and how can we ensure adequate intake?
Fluoride is crucial to dental health, helping to strengthen tooth enamel and reduce the risk of tooth decay. Sufficient fluoride intake can be ensured by using fluoridated toothpastes and mouthwashes, as well as drinking water containing an appropriate level of fluoride. Fluoride gel or varnish can also be applied during dental check-ups.
How to recognize and treat mouth ulcers?
Mouth ulcers are small, painful ulcers that appear on the mucous membranes of the mouth. They are characterized by a white or yellow central area surrounded by a red halo. Although the exact cause is unknown, stress, certain dietary deficiencies and oral lesions may be triggering factors. Treatment includes the use of topical creams, antiseptic mouthwashes and management of triggers to prevent their recurrence.
What impact does smoking have on oral health?
Smoking has a very negative impact on oral health, significantly increasing the risk of periodontal disease, oral cancer and delayed healing after dental procedures. Tobacco alters the mouth's immune response, promotes plaque build-up and affects gum health. Quitting smoking is essential to reduce these risks and improve the overall condition of the oral sphere.
What is preventive dentistry and why is it important?
Preventive dentistry aims to prevent oral diseases before they occur. It includes regular check-ups, professional cleanings, dental sealants, fluoridation and education on good oral hygiene practices. The importance of preventive dentistry lies in its ability to detect problems early, enabling less invasive and more cost-effective interventions, while maintaining optimal oral health over the long term.
