Oral Mucous Cyst (Mucocele)

An oral mucous cyst, also called a mucocele, is a harmless swollen spot. It’s a good idea to get it checked out, though, especially if it’s bothersome. Oral Mucous Cyst Symptoms There are two types. Mucoceles show up on the inside of your lower lips, your gums, the roof of your mouth, or under your tongue. Those on the floor of the mouth are called ranulas. These are rare, but because they’re larger, they can cause more problems with speech, chewing, and swallowing. Mucoceles may have these traits: Moveable and painless Soft, round, dome-shaped…

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What Are Tongue Problems?

Tongue problems include a variety of symptoms, from pain to changes in color and texture, that can have many different causes. Though often hailed as “the strongest muscle in the body,” the tongue is made up of a group of muscles that allow us to taste food, swallow, and talk. A healthy tongue is pink and covered with small nodules called papillae. Because you use your tongue all the time, tongue problems can be frustrating and uncomfortable. Symptoms of Tongue Problems Different causes of tongue problems have different symptoms. You might have: Pain Burning sensation Lumps…

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Home Care to prevent Gum Disease

How Can Gum Disease Be Prevented? Gingivitis can be reversed and gum disease can be kept from getting worse in nearly all cases when proper plaque control is practiced. Proper plaque control consists of professional cleanings at least twice a year and daily brushing and flossing.   Brush your teeth twice a day. Use a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste. Replace your toothbrush every 3 months, or sooner if the bristles become frayed. Old, worn-out ones won’t clean teeth as well. Brushing gets rid of plaque on the surfaces of the…

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What Causes Gum Disease?

Plaque is the primary cause of gum disease. However, other factors can contribute to periodontal disease. These include: Hormonal changes, such as those occurring during pregnancy, puberty, menopause, and monthly menstruation, make gums more sensitive, which makes it easier for gingivitis to develop. Illnesses may affect the condition of your gums. This includes diseases such as cancer or HIV that interfere with the immune system. Because diabetes affects the body’s ability to use blood sugar, patients with this disease are at higher risk of developing infections, including periodontal disease and cavities. Medications can…

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What is Gum Disease? (Gingivitis and Periodontal Disease)

Periodontitis, also generally called gum disease or periodontal disease, begins with bacterial growth in your mouth and may end — if not properly treated — with tooth loss due to destruction of the tissue that surrounds your teeth. What’s the Difference Between Gingivitis and Periodontitis? Gingivitis (gum inflammation) usually happens before periodontitis (gum disease). But not all gingivitis leads to periodontitis. Most people get gingivitis at some point in their lives, and its mild symptoms make it easy to ignore. But without treatment, it can turn into bigger problems for your mouth. The good news is that…

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What is tooth cavity?

A tooth cavity is damage to a tooth due to tooth decay also known as caries which results from bacteria activity on the tooth surface. Decay can affect the outer coating of a tooth (called enamel) and the inner layer (called dentin). Bacteria evade removal by brushing and saliva and damage the enamel and deeper structures of teeth. Most cavities occur on molars and premolars. Tooth decay: A general name for disease of the teeth, including cavities. Cavity Signs and Symptoms The symptoms of a cavity will depend on how large it…

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