Dental problems can be troublesome, especially at night, but fortunately, most of them can be easily treated or prevented. The good news is that brushing and flossing (preferably twice a day), eating the right diet and routine dental check-ups are crucial steps in preventing common oral health problems. Enlightening you about what causes the common oral health complications can go a long way in prevention. According to the American Dental Association, here is a list of the five most common dental health problems that people experience in their lifetime.
5 Common Dental Problems and Treatment
1. Gum Disease
Gum disease, also referred to as gingivitis or periodontal disease, is a bacterial infection caused by the accumulation of plaque in your mouth. According to Colgate, diseases of gums affects 8 out of 10 adults in America. The symptoms the disease of gums include bad breath, gums in pain, sore on gums, especially when chewing, red, swollen, or bleeding gums. As with oral cavities, everyone is at risk of contracting diseases of the gums. You should try to see your dentist if you experience gum disease symptoms to prevent further complications like tooth loss. There are two types of gums diseases treatment options available; surgical and non-surgical approaches. Under the nonsurgical treatment option, your dentist may carefully remove the plaque and tartar from your tooth’s root. The surgical treatment approach involves tries to eliminate the infection in your gums or to regenerate lost bone through surgery.
2. Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is an occasional dental problem that affects many people around the world. Basically, the sign of sensitive teeth involves experiencing discomfort or pain to your teeth from cold drinks, sweets, hot drinks, cold air, or ice creams. Some patients with sensitive teeth may experience discomfort from flossing and brushing. Fortunately, tooth sensitivity can be prevented by observing good oral hygiene practices. By brushing your teeth properly with a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush, minimizing the consumption of acidic or sugary foods, it is possible to prevent tooth sensitivity. If tooth sensitivity is already a problem, you need to see your dentist for treatment. Your dentist will determine the actual cause of the problem. In-office dental treatments may include filling to cover exposed roots of your bad tooth or fluoride vanishes over your tooth’s root surface.
3. Tooth Decay
Tooth decay, also referred to as dental caries or cavities, is a prevalent dental problem in the United States. It occurs when plaque, combines with acidic or sugary foods that you consume. These acids slowly eat away your tooth enamel and form holes. The risk of developing a cavity entirely depends on lifestyle. The better your oral hygiene, the less chance you have of experiencing teeth rotting. The best way of treating rotting tooth is to prevent plaque from building up. Try to brush your teeth once you have dental cavities or any periodontal disease, you must have them treated by a dentist. If you leave it untreated, it could progress into abscess or lead to a gum infection. Such infection gums cause a lot of discomfort or pain for patients. This explains why timely oral repairs are crucial, whether they take a form of a crown, filling, or tooth extraction.
4. Oral Cancer
Mouth cancer is a serious and common dental condition that affects many people around the globe. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, one person dies every hour from oral cancer in the United States, but the good news is that it can be prevented and treated in the formative stages. The risk factors are alcohol use and smoking, especially chewing tobacco. Most dental cancers start as a growth or pinkish lump in your mouth. If you experience growth in your mouth, then you need to see a dentist immediately for treatment. Your dentist will examine your head, mouth, and ear for signs of trouble. The sad truth is that any type of cancer kills. However, you can prevent mouth cancer by keeping up with regular dental exams and appointments. For oral cancer, prevention is always cheaper (better) than cure. It can spell the difference between life and death. If you experience any mouth cancer symptoms or have a problem swallowing or chewing, you may need to visit the dentist to have your teeth and gums reviewed.
5. Dry Mouth
Dry mouth also referred to as Xerostomia, is a common oral health problem typically caused by a lack of saliva. This can happen for various reasons, but it is an adverse effect of taking certain prescription medications. The risky thing about Xerostomia it robs your teeth and gums of crucial lubrication, cleansing, and moisture. A dentist will examine your teeth for signs of rotting that might have been caused by reduced salivary flow. Besides routine appointments, keeping your body well hydrated will help to prevent dry mouth dental problems.
Avoid Occasional Dental Problems by Visiting Your Dentist Regularly
Keeping your teeth healthy is a lifelong commitment. A dentist will teach you how to take care of your gums and teeth properly daily. According to the American Dental Association recommendations, you should visit your dentist twice a year for oral checkups and cleanings. If you experience any of the gum and teeth conditions discussed above, kindly schedule an appointment online or call us at (615) 896-7582 for preventative dental care and education today!
