Diseases impacting oral health are prevalent and can have significant consequences if not addressed promptly. Understanding these conditions and the diagnostic tests employed to identify them is crucial. Let’s explore some common oral health diseases and the corresponding diagnostic methods.
Tooth Decay (Dental Caries): Tooth decay, caused by bacterial activity on the tooth surface, leads to cavities. Dentists typically diagnose tooth decay by performing a visual examination and using dental probes to assess the integrity of the tooth structure. X-rays can also reveal decay hidden between teeth or below the gum line.
Gum Disease (Periodontal Disease): Periodontal disease affects the gums and underlying tissues that support teeth. Dentists diagnose gum disease through a comprehensive periodontal evaluation. This includes assessing gum inflammation, measuring pocket depths (the space between teeth and gums), and examining X-rays to evaluate bone loss.
Oral Cancer: Oral cancer can manifest as lesions or tumours in the mouth, throat, or tongue. Dentists may perform a visual examination of the oral tissues, looking for abnormal growths, discoloured patches, or ulcers. Biopsies may be necessary to confirm a diagnosis, where a small tissue sample is taken and analyzed for cancerous cells.
Oral Candidiasis (Thrush): Thrush is a fungal infection that can affect the mouth, causing white patches on the tongue, inner cheeks, and throat. Diagnosis involves a physical examination, with a healthcare professional identifying the characteristic white lesions. In some cases, a swab may be taken and cultured to confirm the presence of Candida fungus.
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders: TMJ disorders affect the jaw joint and associated muscles. Dentists diagnose these conditions through a combination of patient history, clinical examination, and imaging techniques such as X-rays or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). These tests help evaluate the joint’s position, movement, and any abnormalities.
Remember, this content is generated by an AI and should be reviewed and verified by professionals or reliable sources before use.
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Refs
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/oral-health
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