Overview Of The 5 Most Common Dental Care Issues
Taking care of your teeth by brushing and flossing daily can help prevent most dental problems. It’s also important to visit your dentist every six months for routine checkups and cleanings. These steps alone can all but ensure your teeth and gums remain clean and healthy.
Yet, millions of people in the U.S. suffer from an assortment of dental care issues. Even worse, many neglect to have them resolved once signs of problems become clear. This is a sure path to dental pain and tooth loss. Below, we’ll provide a list of the most common dental issues along with a few suggestions for getting them resolved.
#1 – Tooth Decay And Cavities
Decay begins when bacteria interacts with the sugar and starch content in items we consume. This interaction causes the formation of plaque. Plaque is a thin film of sticky material that adheres to the surface of our teeth, allowing acids to break down the enamel. With time, the acids breach the underlying layer of soft tissue (dentin), and ultimately reach the pulp chamber. At that point, a root canal may become necessary to save the tooth.
Brushing and flossing are critical steps to prevent plaque from forming, or to remove it if it has already formed. Since foods and beverages containing sugar and starch contribute to decay, reducing your intake of both is also important.
#2 – Gum Disease
Gum disease is the most common reason teeth are lost. Plaque turns into tartar, and causes inflammation in the gum line. At this stage, it is known as gingivitis. Plaque eventually hardens into tartar, which causes the gums to recede. The condition becomes known as periodontitis.
Tartar cannot be removed from your teeth by brushing and flossing. A dentist must scrape it away with specialized tools. Unfortunately, many people fail to have gum disease addressed, and end up with bone loss, tissue damage, and lost teeth.
#3 – Toothaches
There are several potential causes for a toothache. Broadly defined as pain in the jaw or teeth unrelated to trauma, it can be triggered by cavities (dental caries), impaction, TMJ, or gum disease.
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as Advil, can provide temporary relief. Also, flossing around the affected tooth will help remove small pieces of food and other debris. If the pain continues, call your dentist. Treatment will depend on the cause of your discomfort. For example, a cavity warrants cleaning the tooth, and filling it. Advanced gum disease may require scaling and root planing.
#4 – Overly-Sensitive Teeth
Similar to toothaches, this condition can be caused by many factors. If you have a habit of grinding your teeth, some or all of them may become sensitive to heat, cold, or pressure. Brushing too aggressively can also lead to sensitivity. Occasionally, dental procedures (root canals, dental cleanings, etc.) may cause one or more teeth to become sensitive.
Steps you can take at home for relief include using a toothbrush with softer bristles, rinsing your mouth with a fluoridated mouthwash, and limiting your consumption of high-acid foods. But schedule an appointment with your dentist so he or she can determine the root cause of the sensitivity. A more effective therapy option may be available.
#5 – Erosion Of The Tooth Structure
Erosion is often related to tooth decay and gum disease since both gradually affect the enamel and dentin of teeth. It refers to the wearing away of the tooth as a result of acid. In its beginning stages, you might experience sensitivity, and notice spots of discoloration on the surface of the tooth. As erosion progresses, the tooth may develop cracks along the edges.
The dental problems we’ve covered thus far are among the most common; they affect millions of people. If you notice symptoms, consult your dentist. He or she can suggest the most appropriate treatment options given the extent of the damage to your teeth.
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