The most common oral infections

1. 8 common oral
infections

2. Oral infections are common throughout our lives. Like any part of our body, we can get infections & illnesses that can
affect our teeth, gums and tongue. Some infections can pose more serious issues than others. But educating yourself
with the knowledge about these mouth infections, causes and typical signs can help you prevent them.
Introduction

3. Dental Cavities or Cavities
Dental cavities are holes in your teeth that are formed by tooth decay, and cavities are one of the most common oral
infections. Common foods like chips or rice, break down into glucose in your body.

4. Gingivitis
Gingivitis is caused when bacteria settles along the gumline, and the bacteria produces toxins. These toxins can cause
inflammation and swelling in the gums. Common signs to look out for are bleeding gums when you brush your teeth. Gingivitis can
be prevented by removing that bacteria at the gumline and below with flossing and brushing.

5. Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease develops when an oral infection spreads below the gumline to affect the bone and supporting tissues. Gums
can begin to recede below the teeth and pockets from which leads to further inflammation and bone loss which loosens teeth.
Periodontal disease is the most common cause for tooth loss in adults.

6. Thrush
Thrush is caused by an overgrowth of the naturally occurring "Candida albicans." Medical treatments, such as antibiotics,
chemotherapy, and radiation, can trigger outbreaks. Common symptoms include white, curd-like plaques on the inner cheeks,
tongue, roof of the mouth, and back of the throat.

7. Hand, foot & mouth disease
Hand, Foot, and Mouth disease is a viral infection in the mouth and other parts of the body that typically affects toddlers and
school-aged children. Typically the infection will disappear within three days. After a couple of days of sore throat and fever you may
experience slightly painful ulcers that develop on the inside of your cheeks, on the tongue, palms and soles of the feet.

8. Herpangina
Herpangina is an infection in the mouth similar to hand, foot, and mouth disease. Initial symptoms can include fever, sore throat,
and difficulty swallowing. This is usually followed by small ulcers in the back of the mouth. These can grow into larger ulcers if they
burst.

9. Oral herpes
Oral herpes can cause outbreaks of fluid-filled blisters in the mouth or on the lips that last for a week to 10 days. When the blisters
rupture, the scabs last for a few days without pain. This infection is caused by the herpes simplex virus. Once infected, the virus will
be present in the body permanently.

10. While these infections may seem scary, many people get one or the other throughout their lives. Knowing the common signs and
symptoms of mouth infections can help you recognize and seek treatment if necessary. If you are still unsure, consult your local
Brassall Family Dental Clinic.
Conclusion