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Did you know over 1 in 4 adults have untreated tooth decay in the United States? If you want to learn about dental problems, we can help.
In this guide, we’ll go over common dental problems people experience.
Want to learn more? Keep reading.
1. Foul Breath
People who have bad breath, or what’s called halitosis, feel embarrassed by this condition. There’s usually a dental condition that underlies persistent bad breath.
If you have halitosis, you could have cavities, gum disease, dry mouth, or even oral cancer.
Mouthwash can cover up bad breath. A dental problem behind the odor needs a cure from a dentist. If you have chronic bad breath that’s not going away, visit your local dentist.
2. Decaying Teeth
Tooth decay is a common disease in the United States. Decay can occur when a sticky substance called plaque forms on your teeth.
When plaque’s combined with starches or sugars from the food you eat, acid gets produced. The acid will harm your tooth enamel and cause cavities.
People of all ages get cavities. As you grow older, cavities can occur because of tooth enamel erosion. Dry mouth from medications or age can also lead to cavities.
You can prevent tooth decay by flossing daily and brushing your teeth twice a day. Make sure you also go see your dentist for regular check-ups.
Avoid snacks that are high in sugar. Prevent tooth decay by eating healthy foods. Ask your dentist for further treatments that can lower the risk of tooth decay.
Your dentist might recommend a dental crown to protect a damaged tooth.
3. Periodontal Disease
Gum disease is also called periodontal disease. Gum disease occurs in the gums that surround your teeth. One of the causes behind tooth loss is gum disease.
Gum disease tends to occur after age 30. Diabetes and dry mouth can increase your risk. Smoking is a major risk factor.
Symptoms of periodontal disease include bleeding or tender gums and sensitive teeth.
Talk to your local dentist if you notice signs of gum disease. This way, you can get treatment and prevent tooth loss.
The main stages of gum disease are periodontitis and gingivitis. Brush your teeth at least twice daily. Keep up with a daily flossing routine. Go see your dentist for regular checkups.
4. Oral Cancer
Oral cancer affects millions of people around the world. Oral cancer is curable if it gets discovered and treated in an early stage.
Risk factors are alcohol and tobacco use. Symptoms of throat or mouth cancer include lumps, sores, or rougher areas in the mouth.
You might notice a change in your bite, or you might have a difficult time chewing.
Frequent dental visits can also catch oral cancer. Ask your dentist if an oral cancer exam is going to be part of your checkup.
5. Mouth Sores
There are mouth sores that might last for two weeks but then disappear after a while. Common mouth sores are also called canker sores.
Canker sores can occur on the inside of the mouth. They aren’t contagious and can get caused by different reasons.
Cold sores or fever blisters get caused by the Herpes simplex virus and appear on the outer lips. Cold sores are contagious, and they will come and go. You can’t cure them.
Mouth sores can also arise from candidiasis or oral thrush, a yeast infection of the mouth. Denture wearers, people with diabetes, or infants struggle with these sores.
6. Tooth Erosion
Tooth erosion can occur when acid in the mouth attacks the enamel of the tooth. Symptoms of tooth erosion include sensitivity and tooth cracking.
Tooth erosion is common, but you can prevent it. Save acidic foods for your mealtimes.
Make sure you sip water while you eat acidic food. Try drinking through a straw, so you reduce the contact of acidic beverages. Aim to consume low sugar drinks.
7. Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity affects millions of people. If you consume a hot or cold beverage, you might experience discomfort or pain to your teeth.
People with sensitive teeth experience discomfort when they floss or brush their teeth.
Sometimes, sensitive teeth are a sign that there’s something wrong. You might have a cracked tooth or a tooth abscess.
You’ll need to see your dentist. This way, you can prevent an infection in your jaw bone or from losing a tooth.
If you develop a sensitivity to your teeth, call to make an appointment with your dentist.
8. Dental Emergencies and Toothaches
While dental emergencies and toothaches can get avoided, accidents do happen.
A common problem that requires a trip to the dentist might involve a cracked or broken tooth. People lose a tooth in an accident.
If you have a dislocated or fractured jaw, you might need to go into the hospital for trauma care. A tooth abscess can cause people to have a hard time swallowing. They might develop facial swelling or a fever.
9. Mismatched Smile
An unattractive smile isn’t a dental problem, but it’s one of the main reasons people see a dentist. Someone’s smile can boost or lower their self-esteem.
With today’s technological advancements, you can get a beautiful smile. Dental implants, teeth whitening, or orthodontics are things you can consider.
Now You Know Common Dental Problems
We hope this guide on dental issues was helpful. Now that you know common dental problems take steps to keep your teeth healthy.
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