Teeth, Gums, Tongue
Find out about conditions that can affect the teeth, gums, and tongue.
Teeth Problems
Learn how to protect yourself from tooth and mouth injuries.
Smoking and other tobacco use can cause oral health problems like gum disease and tooth decay.
Tooth decay is the destruction of tooth structure and can affect both the enamel (the outer coating of the tooth) and the dentin layer of the tooth.
Toothaches and jaw pain are common but can have different sources. Learn more from the experts at WebMD.
Tooth sensitivity is tooth discomfort in one or more teeth that is triggered by hot, cold, sweet, or sour foods and drinks, or even by breathing cold air. The pain can be sharp, sudden, and shoot deep into the nerve endings of your teeth.
Learn here how to prevent and treat tooth discoloration.
WebMD explains tooth plaque and why it can harm your teeth.
An abscessed tooth is a painful infection at the root of a tooth or between the gum and a tooth. Learn what causes this condition and how it is treated.
Do you or a loved one grind teeth at night? Find out what can be done for teeth grinding (bruxism), as well as causes and consequences.
Tooth decay occurs when foods containing carbohydrates (sugars and starches) such as breads, cereals, milk, soda, fruits, cakes, or candy are left on the teeth.Â
What does tooth enamel do? WebMD explains what tooth enamel is, what causes it to erode, how to prevent enamel loss, and how to treat it.
There are certain risk factors for tooth loss. Find out what they are and if any are in your control.
Plaque and tarter can threaten your oral health. Learn more about them, including tips for keeping them away from your teeth.
Wisdom Teeth
What are wisdom teeth and why do they sometimes require removal? Learn more from the experts at WebMD.
Dry socket is a painful complication that can happen after having a tooth pulled.
Wisdom teeth are the upper and lower third molars, located at the very back of the mouth.
Pericoronitis happens when the gums surrounding your back teeth -- usually the wisdom teeth -- become infected. Find out more.
Gum Problems
Learn how you can prevent gum disease by brushing and flossing regularly, having regular dental visits for exams and cleaning, and eating a balanced diet.
WebMD discusses stomatitis, a condition causing oral inflammation, and its symptoms, causes, and treatment.
WebMD's guide to gum disease, also called gingivitis and periodontal disease.
Why do gums recede? WebMD discusses causes of gum recession and treatment, including surgery.
WebMD examines common problems with the gums, including soreness, swelling, and bleeding. Learn possible causes and find remedies to help keep your gums healthy.
Tongue Problems
What is leukoplakia what does it have to do with your oral health? Find out more.
Because you use your tongue constantly, it can be frustrating and uncomfortable when you experience tongue problems, including discoloration and soreness. Read more about tongue problems.
WebMD explains what fissured tongue is, what causes it, and how it's treated.
WebMD provides information on geographic tongue, including symptoms, treatments, and causes.
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Only 18.5% of Americans never floss. You are missing out on a simple way to make a big difference in the health of your mouth. Regardless of how well you brush, plaque still forms between your teeth and along your gums. Floss removes food trapped between the teeth and removes the film of bacteria that forms there before it turns to plaque, which can cause inflamed gums (gingivitis), cavities, and tooth loss. Try flossing just one tooth to get started.
You are one of 31% of Americans who don't floss daily. You are missing out on a simple way to make a big difference in the health of your mouth. Regardless of how well you brush, plaque still forms between your teeth and along your gums. Toothbrush bristles alone cannot clean effectively between these tight spaces. Flossing removes up to 80% of the film that hardens to plaque, which can cause inflamed gums (gingivitis), cavities, and tooth loss. Aim for 3 more days!
You are one of 31% of Americans who don't floss daily, but you're well on your way to making a positive impact on your teeth and gums. Regardless of how well you brush, plaque still forms between your teeth and along your gums. Toothbrush bristles alone cannot clean effectively between these tight spaces. Flossing removes up to 80% of the film that hardens to plaque, which can cause inflamed gums (gingivitis), cavities, and tooth loss. Aim for all 7 days!
Only 50.5% of Americans floss daily, and good for you that you are one of them! Regardless of how well you brush, plaque still forms between your teeth and along your gums. Toothbrush bristles alone cannot clean effectively between these tight spaces. Flossing removes up to 80% of the film that hardens to plaque, which can cause inflamed gums (gingivitis), cavities, and tooth loss. Congratulations on your good oral health habit!
SOURCES:
American Dental Association, Healthy People 2010
This tool is intended only for adults 18 and older.
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