Advanced Endodontics and Advanced Oral & Facial Specialists focus on different aspects of your oral health. Advanced Endodontics works to save your teeth through procedures such as root canals. Among other things, Advanced Oral & Facial Specialists extract and replace teeth that cannot be saved. One thing both practices have in common: a dedication to great oral health. We want you to have healthy teeth and gums and feel confident in your smile. What are the most common dental problems? Here are some common dental problems and how to prevent them.
Tooth Decay
Tooth decay – aka cavities – is the most common dental problem there is. This condition occurs when bacteria form plaque on the surface of teeth. The bacteria produce acids that eat away at and permanently damage your teeth. This breakdown can lead to cavities and can cause toothaches.
Other symptoms of tooth decay include bad breath, black or brown spots on your teeth, or an unpleasant taste in your mouth. Treatment options include fillings, crowns, or a root canal. Extreme cases of tooth decay might require extraction followed by dental implants or dentures.
You can help to prevent tooth decay by brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day. You should also get regular checkups from your dentist.
Gum Disease
Gingivitis is a bacterial infection caused by the buildup of plaque. Common symptoms include red, swollen gums that bleed easily. You also could have bad breath and sensitive teeth that hurt when you chew or take a drink. Poor brushing techniques (or not brushing at all) can contribute to gum disease. Other risk factors include pregnancy, diabetes, and tobacco use.
Gingivitis can be painless and as such, you might not notice it, which is why regular dental checkups are a good idea. Gingivitis can be treated with a thorough cleaning from your dental health professional. Practice twice-daily brushing and flossing to keep it from returning.
Bad Breath
Bad breath – or halitosis – is very common. It can be caused by several factors, including:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Dry mouth
- Medication
- Infection
- Acid reflux
- Cancer
Spices such as garlic and onion are common culprits. Because bad breath has so many causes, your dentist will do a complete exam and decide which course of action that suits your needs.
Sensitive Teeth
Teeth become sensitive to hot and cold foods and drinks when the enamel is worn away and dentin is exposed. Hot or cold substances travel along tubes in the dentin to the nerve and cause intense pain. Tooth sensitivity can be caused by tooth decay or:
- Gum disease
- Root infection
- A cracked or broken tooth
- Worn-down crown or fillings
- Enamel erosion
- Receding gums
There are toothpastes and mouthwashes specifically designed for use with sensitive teeth. Your dentist might recommend a crown, fluoride treatment, root canal, or gum graft, depending on your needs.
Cracked or Broken Teeth
Cracked or broken teeth are most often caused by injury, mouth piercings, hard foods, and grinding your teeth. A cracked or broken tooth can cause intense pain. Fixing this dental problem might require a veneer, crown, or filling.
Root Infection
The root of your tooth can become infected and swollen because of cavities, cracks, or fractures in the tooth. Root infection can lead to damaged tissues and tooth nerves and the development of abscesses. A chronic throbbing toothache is a major sign of root infection. Chewing and biting can be very painful.
The treatment for a root infection is a root canal. With the help of GentleWave technology, root canals at Advanced Endodontics are virtually pain-free with little to no downtime afterward.
Teeth Grinding
Bruxism – grinding your teeth – most often occurs while you sleep but can happen while you are awake. It can damage your teeth, and cause jaw pain, headaches, and earaches. Some dental conditions lead to grinding, including a new filling or crown that is higher than your other teeth or an abnormal bite. Some people suffer from bruxism when they are stressed or dealing with anxiety. Treating these underlying issues could help to ease or stop your grinding.
Your dentist can give you a custom-made mouthguard to use at night. It will minimize the grinding and protect your teeth. It will also correct bite issues.
How to Prevent Dental Problems
Advanced Endodontics and Advanced Oral & Facial Specialists want you to know some of the most common dental problems and how to prevent them. Brushing your teeth and flossing twice daily are the best ways to prevent many problems. Regular visits to your dental professional can diagnose problems early and get quick treatment to ensure you have the smile you’ve always wanted.