You brush regularly and visit the dentist every six months. You do the best you can to take care of your teeth. Yet, dental problems still happen. Whether it’s bad breath, cavities or something more serious, you may find yourself suffering from some dental problems during your lifetime. Let’s take a look at eight common dental problems and how you can treat these issues.
Gum Diseases
One of the most common dental problems adults experience, gum disease starts out as gingivitis. You may notice red or swollen gums, bleeding gums, bad breath, loose teeth, or pus. Untreated, gingivitis can then progress to periodontal disease and advanced periodontal disease.
In the early stages of gingivitis, this problem may not seem like a major issue. But, left untreated, you could suffer from tooth loss.
Importance of flossing
But, do you know what the most important thing you can do to prevent gingivitis? Floss your teeth. By flossing just once per day, you can help remove plaque and debris which can lead to gingivitis. Flossing, along with your daily brushing can help prevent gum disease.
Halitosis (Bad Breath)
While you may think that bad breath, also known as halitosis, is just an embarrassing problem, it can also be a symptom of other dental issues. Halitosis can be caused by gum disease, cavities or even oral cancer. Of course, it can also simply be from what you are eating.
Brushing is the primary way to combat bad breath. In addition, if you are unable to brush your teeth after a meal, you could gargle with mouthwash or even plain water to help reduce the bacteria in your mouth.
Tooth Decay/Cavities
Tooth decay causes tiny holes in your teeth known as cavities. These cavities need to be treated by a dentist to prevent further damage to your teeth and gums. Cavities are caused by plaque. Plaque builds up on your teeth after the consumption of sugary or starchy foods and drinks.
Proper flossing Techniques
To prevent cavities, avoid sugary and starchy foods, regularly brush your teeth, rinse your mouth, visit your dentist and floss your teeth daily. When you properly floss by gently sliding the floss between your teeth and going around the base of each tooth and below the gum line, you can help to remove plaque build-up.
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth occurs when you don’t produce enough saliva. You may be asking yourself, “What is the big deal if I don’t produce enough saliva?” Saliva has antibacterial properties, so without it, you put your mouth at risk for plaque build-up and cavities.
Patients who experience it are encouraged to drink more water.
Dental Crowding
When your teeth are crowded in your mouth, this is more than an appearance issue. Dental crowding can cause jaw disorders or bite issues (overbite or underbite).
Several options can be used to treat dental crowding. Your dentist may suggest you visit an orthodontist to discuss the use of braces or Invisalign to fix your teeth.
Root and Tooth Infection
If you’ve ever experienced an infection in your tooth or the root of your tooth, you know how painful it can be. When bacteria cause an infection, you may experience a toothache, or an abscess may form.
Root and tooth infections should be treated by a dental professional. Once the dentist has determined where the infection is, he/she can perform a root canal to alleviate the pain and, hopefully, save your tooth.
Tooth Loss
Periodontal disease, cavities and root, and tooth infections can all lead to tooth loss. To avoid tooth loss, brush and floss regularly and visit your dentist for care.
Mouth Cancer
Oral cancer is a serious issue that needs immediate medical attention. Your dentist will regularly check your mouth for oral cancer. Additionally, as oral cancers are commonly caused by smoking and drinking, avoid the excessive use of tobacco products and alcohol to help prevent this cancer.
Oxford House Dental Practice, a pioneer in quality dentistry since its establishment in 1954. With its large, private car park, familiar exterior, friendly attitude of surgeons and the full range of dental treatments, it is a well-known dentistry in Milton Keynes.
