6 Most Common Oral Infections You Should Be Aware Of

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Practicing proper dental hygiene and visiting regular dental cleanings and checkups is essential for more than just keeping your smile shiny and beautiful. The oral bacteria that develops when you avoid brushing, flossing, and otherwise caring for your teeth can cause tooth decay, gum disease, and other types of oral infections detrimental to your dental and overall health. Most of these infections and temporary problems can be prevented by sticking to daily oral care, but some are more dangerous and can linger for some time. 

Continue reading to discover the six most common oral infections and how they affect your dental health. 

1. Gingivitis

Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that occurs due to various bacteria that develop in your mouth. When these bacteria accumulate in hard-to-reach areas of your teeth and gums, they start to produce acids. These acids contact your gums, causing them to inflame, swell, and bleed. Other symptoms of gingivitis include tender gums and bad breath. Nearly 50% to 90% of American adults have some kind of gingivitis. This infection can develop into periodontal disease if untreated. 

2. Periodontal disease

When gingivitis extends below your gum line, it can affect other oral tissues and jawbone, leading to periodontal disease. Gum pockets filled with infectious bacteria can start to form in your mouth. They can deteriorate the underlying bone structure, resulting in loose teeth. Periodontal disease is the main culprit of tooth loss in adults, occurring in 8% to 10% of U.S. citizens over 18. If periodontal bacteria get into your bloodstream and travel to your gums, they can cause pneumonia and other dangerous lung diseases.  

3. Herpangina

Associated with hand, foot, and mouth disease, herpangina often occurs in kids aged 3 to 10 years old and mostly occurs during the summer and fall seasons. Its early symptoms are similar to hand, foot, and mouth disease and include dysphagia and sore throat. These issues contribute to the occurrence of tiny blisters in the back of your throat and mouth, which develop into large mouth sores once they rapture. Luckily, similarly to hand, foot, and mouth disease, herpangina usually subsides within 3 to 5 days. If your symptoms last longer or become more severe, consult a doctor about appropriate treatment. 

4. Thrush

Thrush is a white or yellowish rush that forms on your inner cheeks and tongue. It typically occurs due to yeast infection but can also develop as a side effect of various treatments like chemotherapy, antibiotics, and radiation therapy. Common symptoms of thrush include impaired taste, difficulty swallowing, and a cottony feeling in your mouth. If you have certain health conditions like diabetes, cancer, and HIV, you have higher odds of developing thrush.  

5. Canker sores

Canker sores are tiny ulcers that develop inside your mouth. This condition is prevalent in children and teens. Canker sores typically lead to a tingling or burning sensation before they appear and may result in fatigue, fever, and swollen lymph nodes if they become severe. The precise cause of canker sores is still undetermined, but potential triggers may include hormonal imbalance, weak immune system, stressful lifestyle, food intolerances, and some infections. Canker sores typically last for 10 days to 2 weeks before they subside. 

6. Oral herpes

Oral herpes is an infection caused by the herpes simplex virus, which is present in about 50% to 80% of all adult U.S. citizens. The first-time infection can cause blisters and ulcers to develop on your gum line and tongue. You can also experience headaches, sore throat, and difficulty swallowing. The virus stays in your body forever after you've been infected, but with careful treatment, it can be kept at bay. Recurrent outbreaks of oral herpes shouldn’t last for more than 10 to 14 days.