The health of your mouth and teeth is essential to your overall health, and most dental problems can be prevented with good oral hygiene and regular checkups at the dentist. In addition to preventing dental problems, you can prevent chronic bad breath by brushing and flossing at least twice a day, eating a well-balanced diet, and visiting your dentist regularly. Understanding common dental problems can help you understand how to prevent them and how to treat them. To begin, let’s look at some common dental problems and their causes.
Teeth enamel is a thin layer that is naturally thin and susceptible to chipping or cracking. Enamel erosion is difficult to notice, but warning signs can be spotted by regularly brushing and flossing your teeth. You may experience tooth pain while eating or extreme sensitivity. This weakening will eventually lead to tooth cracks and other dental problems. A dentist can repair these problems with a crown, veneer, or tooth-colored filling.
Bad breath is a common problem that can affect anyone of any age. In fact, one in four people experiences it on a regular basis. Fortunately, it’s easy to prevent or cure bad breath with good oral hygiene. Another common problem is knocked-out teeth. If your tooth has fallen out, seek treatment right away. A dentist will put your adult tooth back in place, but a child’s tooth will need to be extracted.
In severe cases, tooth pain can spread throughout the mouth. In extreme cases, the pain may even extend to the jaw, ear, or head. Tooth decay, in contrast, is caused by a cavity that develops in the tooth. Regardless of age, tooth decay can affect anyone, and it’s important to address the problem as soon as possible. If you’re not afraid of visiting the dentist, check up regularly and have regular cleanings.
Tooth decay, also known as dental caries, occurs when plaque on the teeth reacts with acidic foods and drinks. The decayed tooth gradually forms holes in the tooth enamel. Various factors influence the risk of developing cavities, including diet and lifestyle. However, proper oral hygiene can greatly reduce the risk of tooth decay. Brushing and flossing regularly can help prevent the formation of plaque on the teeth, and preventing the buildup of sugar can prevent tooth decay. If left untreated, dental cavities can develop into an abscess and gum infection.
Another common dental problem is dry mouth, or xerostomia. This condition occurs when saliva is inadequate to lubricate the teeth and fight cavity-causing bacteria. The absence of saliva leaves teeth vulnerable to decay and is a common side effect of prescription medications. Many people suffer from dry mouth due to health problems, such as diabetes or autoimmune diseases. In such cases, regular checkups and maintenance will be necessary. These dental issues can affect your oral health.
In addition to the pain associated with gum disease, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems can be extremely painful. The infected root can damage the nerves, tissues, and bones within the tooth. A painful tooth can also lead to an abscess if you have a cavity or fracture. Luckily, there are treatments for temporomandibular disorders. But it’s still important to see a dentist for a diagnosis.