Oral infection: understanding, identifying and treating mouth infections

According to the WHO , nearly 3.5 billion people are affected by oral and dental conditions , which represents approximately 45% of the world's population . And when it comes to oral hygiene, the list of infections is long. In addition to their frequent nature, they can affect our general health if we do not treat them in a timely manner.

By definition, an oral infection is caused by bacteria , fungi or viruses. Our teeth, gums, tongue, and even other soft tissues can be affected by these infections . And if left untreated, they can lead to complications such as chronic pain, tooth loss, and even more serious infections. 😫

Here are the signs to watch for:

• Incessant pain,

• Redness and swelling ,

• Bad breath ,

• Fever or overall exhaustion,

• Difficulty chewing or speaking.

Our mouth, this beautiful gateway to many pathogens, is subject to various infections . Let's take a closer look at which ones are the most common:

The most common condition, affecting no less than 2.5 billion people worldwide according to a WHO report in 2022 . Cavities are caused by bacteria that convert sugars into acids, thereby harming tooth enamel . If left untreated, these can affect the dental pulp and cause intense pain. 🍬

Gingivitis , which is the first stage of periodontal disease, results in gums that are red , swollen and likely to bleed. It is essential to maintain adequate oral hygiene to prevent it.

If gingivitis is left untreated, it can develop into periodontitis , a more serious infection that destroys the tissues supporting teeth, potentially leading to tooth loss. 😓

Very well known in the world of early childhood, this viral syndrome causes ulcers in the mouth , accompanied by rashes on the hands and feet .

This infectious disease, caused by enteroviruses, mainly affects children. It causes painful damage to the back of the mouth .

No, we're not talking about May Day. 🕊️ Candida albicans is the cause of this fungal infection which results in whitish spots in the mouth.

These small, painful ulcers, although benign, can make eating and speaking uncomfortable .

Caused by the herpes simplex virus, it manifests as painful blisters on the lips and around the mouth . 🛑

A buildup of pus caused by a bacterial infection is called a dental abscess . It is imperative to intervene quickly in order to prevent complications.

This disease , generally benign, manifests itself by a multiplication of filiform papillae on the tongue which acquire a dark appearance.

It is an inflammation of the oral mucosa , which can affect several parts of our mouth: cheeks, gums, tongue, palate or throat. Meals then become a little complicated, even really uncomfortable, as it is so difficult to chew or swallow.

Whether it is acute by appearing suddenly, or chronic by developing over a long period, stomatitis comes from several causes. Infections, chemical irritants, allergic reactions … the reasons are numerous and require medical advice. Because in addition to its certain discomfort, stomatitis can reveal another hidden problem.

Since there are several reasons that explain these problems, the best thing to do is to make a non-exhaustive list.

They can be of three kinds:

• Viral : we think of herpes simplex for example, which causes painful ulcerations on the lips and inside the mouth. Or also chickenpox which can affect the oral cavity, or even herpangina, which manifests itself as painful ulcers at the back of the mouth and throat.
  
  

• Bacterial : ulcerative-necrotizing gingivitis , a severe form of gum disease, causing severe pain . In this category, we also find syphilis 🥳. Although it is sexually transmitted, this infection can also appear as sores in the mouth, often as painless sores.
  
  

• Fungal : like our famous lily of the valley mentioned above.

We are talking here about small (but very unpleasant) bites to the tongue or cheeks , when chewing or speaking. We can also mention irritations due to dental appliances or prostheses that do not fit well. And also, the consumption of very hot or spicy foods which can lead to burns or irritation of oral tissues. 🌶️

Our mouth can also react negatively to certain foods or toothpastes . For example, it's possible to develop ulcers or swelling after eating acidic fruits or nuts . Sensitivity to chemicals is also a notable cause. The alcohol present in mouthwashes is a culprit which can irritate your oral mucous membranes, and therefore lead to inflammation.

Autoimmune diseases, such as lupus or Crohn's disease, can affect the mouth by causing ulcerations . They disrupt the immune system, leading to reactions in various parts of the body, including the mouth .

Stress or the accumulation of fatigue are also causes of inflammation . And inevitably, tobacco and alcohol, known for their irritating effects, can damage the tissues in your mouth. You therefore run the risk of developing lesions or inflammation. 🚬

It is not easy to properly diagnose ulcerations or inflammations that appear in your mouth. This is why it is essential to consult your dentist or doctor. Here is how the in-office assessment takes place:

• History : the dentist asks you about the symptoms, their appearance, and possible trigger factors (diet, stress, medications).
  
  

• Clinical examination : he begins his inspection to identify the lesions: size, shape, color, location, etc. Then, the dentist assesses the general condition of the oral tissues (redness, swelling).
  
  

• Additional tests : if necessary, your dentist or doctor can carry out tests such as a lesion sample, a blood test or a biopsy to obtain a more precise diagnosis.

Although treatment varies depending on the cause and symptoms, we can still help you feel better. Here are some approaches:

• To soothe : we recommend the use of antiseptic or soothing mouthwashes . Avoid, indeed, irritating foods and remember to drink plenty of water to keep your mouth well hydrated.
  
  

• To treat : in case of bacterial infections , antibiotics remain the best option. If you suffer from fungal infections , antifungals in gel or tablet form may be used. And in the case of viral infections , medications are also suitable, such as antivirals against cold sores for example. Remember that only your dentist or doctor can give you the most suitable treatment.
  
  

• For local treatment : you can apply anesthetic gels to relieve pain, or even over-the-counter painkillers. The use of protective creams for ulcers, such as hyaluronic acid, is also a good option to help with healing.
  
  

• To prevent : in order to avoid suffering, the best thing is to strengthen your immunity through a balanced diet rich in vitamins . As always, we take care of our oral hygiene to avoid inflammation, but also of our mental state. Indeed, reduce your stress through relaxation techniques.

To act as quickly as possible, there is nothing better than recognizing your oral infection. There are several signs to watch out for.

• Pain : You experience unpleasant or persistent sensations in your mouth, often around the teeth, gums or tongue .

• Redness and swelling : The gums or other parts of the mouth may seem a little inflamed and tender to the touch .

• Bad breath : your breath is not fresh, despite good oral hygiene. 😷

• Ulcerations or lesions : presence of small painful sores on the oral mucosa.

• Fever or fatigue : yes, an oral infection may be accompanied by more general symptoms.

• Local care : as mentioned above, antiseptic mouthwashes and anesthetic gels are effective in relieving pain.
  
  

• Specific care : your dentist will always be best placed to give you the best treatments. Antibiotics, antifungals or antivirals, it all depends on the source of your infection.
  
  

• Home care : taking care of your mouth means taking care of your plate. So we avoid irritating foods , hydrate sufficiently and use a soft toothbrush so as not to aggravate the lesions.

• In-office care: consult your dentist again and again! 🤌

As teething experts, we affirm it: it is also your oral hygiene routine that also has its role to play! And it starts with gentle and regular brushing.

Twice a day, minimum, is the national recommendation (and necessarily ours), and this with a suitable toothpaste. Studies have shown that using a sonic electric toothbrush is much more effective than a traditional toothbrush.