Halitosis, or bad breath, is the third most frequent reason for seeing a dentist, after tooth decay and periodontal disease.

• Causes include infrequent brushing and flossing, gum disease, dry mouth, smoking and diet.
• Strategies for combatting chronic halitosis include using a tongue scraper, chewing sugarless gum, gargling with mouthwash and drinking lots of water.
• ALWAYS follow good oral hygiene guidelines, which include regular brushing and flossing.
  
  

A cavity is a hole in the tooth caused by decay. Cavities occur after decay has worn away the tooth enamel.

• The best way to prevent tooth decay and cavities is by brushing twice a day, flossing daily and visiting your dentist regularly.
• Eat healthy foods and avoid foods high in sugar.

Saliva is needed to help your mouth wash away food debris and control bacteria. Dry mouth is caused by the reduced flow of saliva.

• Symptoms of dry mouth include hoarseness, persistent sore throat, problems swallowing and dry nasal passages.
• Certain medications and diseases can cause dry mouth. Smoking or chewing tobacco can aggravate dry mouth conditions.
  
  

If you suffer from dry mouth, talk to your dentist about different treatment methods.

Gum disease, sometimes called periodontal disease, can cause your gums to bleed or become infected, swollen or tender.

• Gum disease is the #1 cause of adult tooth loss in the United States.
• Gingivitis, the early stage of periodontal disease, is usually painless, which means that you may not be able to detect it on your own.
• At the root of gum disease is infection caused by bacteria. Like many infections, gum disease can be treated with an antibiotic like ARESTIN™.
• See your dentist soon. Early detection of gum disease can prevent more extensive and costly treatment in later years. The longer you wait, the worse it can get.

Many people are affected by TMJ. TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint. It is the joint that connects the lower jaw to the bone on each side of the head. The joint is stabilized by muscles that make it possible to open and close the mouth. Severe pain, discomfort or tenderness in or around these joints is referred to as a TMJ disorder. Common symptoms include:

• tenderness or pain in the face, jaw and ear
• chewing difficulty or discomfort
• headaches
• painful clicking of the jaw
• difficulty opening or closing the mouth
• locking jaw or teeth that don't come together properly while biting or chewing
  
  

If you think you may have a TMJ disorder, talk to your dentist who will be able to recommend appropriate treatment.

Tooth sensitivity is very common. It's frequently caused by hot, cold and sweets. Some people notice sensitivity from brushing or flossing. Fortunately, it is easily treated with fluoride treatments that can help strengthen the enamel and improve your sensitivity. Also, try using a toothpaste made especially for sensitive teeth.

Tooth erosion is the wearing away of tooth enamel by acid. If erosion is left untreated, it can cause pain, infection and even tooth loss.
To protect against tooth erosion, brush and floss regularly, visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups, and avoid sugary foods. Also, try using a straw when drinking carbonated beverages or other sweet drinks, such as natural fruit juices, which are very acidic.

Smoking has a negative impact on every facet of your health, and all forms of tobacco can cause dental problems. Smokers and tobacco users are at greater risk of developing oral cancer and gum disease. Tobacco products cause permanent stains which cannot be removed by brushing; and smoking can also cause a heavy build-up of tartar requiring more frequent cleanings.