Everyone wants a healthy, confident smile with fresh breath, yet about half of adults will develop halitosis, or bad breath. Fortunately, this condition is very treatable and has been listed as one of the most common dental problems.
Read about halitosis and nine other common dental problems, and learn about some of the possible treatments to resolve each problem.
Common Dental Problems
1. Toothache
Dental caries, or tooth decay, is the most common dental problem faced by dentists. Almost everyone has cavities at one time or another.
Tooth decay develops when bacteria produce plaque on the teeth. The bacteria break down the sugars in food into acids that wear away and permanently damage the hard-outer layer of teeth. The acids then continue to affect the softer layer beneath, the dentin.
The process can break down the tooth structure, which can result in cavities or even actual holes in teeth. This leads to toothache especially after intake of hot, cold, or sweet food items or liquids.
2. Stained Teeth
Your teeth are much like your laundry. Foods, medications, tobacco, and injuries can leave stains on them. You have three ways to whiten them. Your dentist will apply a whitening agent that works with a special light. Or you’ll bleach at home using a custom-fit tray and gel that you get either from your dentist or purchase over the counter. If you want something simple, without much fuss, there’s whitening toothpaste and rinses, which work well for removing surface stains.
3. Cavities
You should be very worried about those tiny holes in your teeth. They occur when stick-on bacteria, also known as plaque, stick to your teeth and break down the hard-protective covering of your teeth, known as enamel. In tooth structures, decay can also occur around existing fillings or along the gumline. Keep cavities away from brushing with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day, including your last thing at night; reduce how often you have sugary snacks; clean in between your teeth every day with floss; use a fluoridated mouthwash and don’t forget to make an appointment at the dentist. Ask your dentist if the placement of sealants on your teeth.
4. Chipped Tooth
Probably the most common dental injury of all is tooth chipping. It could result from an accident, or perhaps by something as innocuous as biting into a kernel of popcorn. In these larger chips, your dentist will likely want to apply a crown or bonding with a robust resin material to fill out the area. If the pulp has been compromised by the chip, root canal treatment may be necessary, which involves putting either a veneer or a crown onto the tooth.
5. Impacted Teeth
When an adult tooth comes in the wrong way, it’s considered “impacted,” usually due to being blocked by another tooth, bone, or even soft tissue. Dentists sometimes recommend monitoring it if there is no associated pain. If, however, it presents pain or possible future problems, it may need to be removed by an oral surgeon.
6. Cracked Tooth
Whether from football, chewing, or an unknown incident, a cracked molar needs immediate dental evaluation to assess salvage options. Dentists typically propose crowning cracked teeth to prevent worsening. Sensitivity to hot and cold indicates a complex problem; chew carefully and schedule a dental appointment promptly. If the crack extends above the gum line, a root canal and crown might be necessary, while deeper cracks could lead to extraction. Fillings can sometimes contribute to the risk of cracking.
7. Sensitive to Cold
Eating ice cream should be an enjoyable, not uncomfortable, time because of sensitive teeth reacting to the cold. It becomes imperative to know why a person is sensitive, due to dental cavities, worn enamel or fillings, gum disease, fractured teeth, or exposed roots. Your dentist will diagnose that, and once diagnosed, it may require the use of fillings, root canals, or gum therapy to replace lost root tissue. Sometimes the treatment may involve using desensitizing toothpaste or strips, or a fluoride gel for relief.
8. Gum Problems
Do you have the problem of gums that easily bleed, feel tender, or seem to be receding from the teeth? Such symptoms should alert you to the fact that you may be suffering from gum disease. Plaque below the gum line often accumulates, leading to gingivitis. If not treated appropriately, further bone loss will occur due to the infection, eventually leading to a shift in teeth or even looseness of the teeth. This can lead to chewing and speech problems. Brushing, flossing, and antiseptic mouthwash are part of a routine daily agenda to avoid periodontal diseases. Regular dental visits also uphold hygiene and health of the teeth and gums.
9. Root Infection
This occurs when bacteria infect the root or base of the tooth due to cavities, cracks, or fractures. When this happens, swelling and inflammation can result. Should this continue, this may further damage tissues and nerves of the tooth, thus causing abscess formation.
Other major symptoms of root infection are persistent throbbing toothache, pain while chewing, especially sensitivity to hot and cold food and drinks. Swelling in the facial area near the infected tooth may be a sign as well.
Root canal treatment is performed for a root infection. Contrary to the ordinary fear people have regarding having a root canal, the procedure itself is relatively painless since dentists use anaesthesia during the process.
10. No Room to Floss
Even when the fit is tight, make sure there will always be space between your teeth to let the floss go through. If not, then you can try a thinner or waxed floss. Alternatively, try the looped flossers or dental picks until you find what works for you. Daily flossing may become part of your standard dental care routine over time.
Maintaining optimal dental health requires vigilance and regular care. From toothaches and cavities to gum disease and root infections, understanding common dental problems and their treatments can help prevent more serious issues. Regular dental check-ups, good oral hygiene practices, and timely interventions are essential for preserving a healthy, confident smile. Remember, addressing these problems early with the guidance of a dental professional can lead to better outcomes and long-lasting oral health. Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen; proactive dental care is the key to preventing and managing these common issues effectively.
