Almost every person experienced some dental issues at some point in their life. But the fact is that many of them can be prevented with minimal efforts. If you brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, eat healthy food and regularly visit the dental office for check-ups, you significantly reduce the risk of dental diseases. Here is the list of the five most common dental problems and treatments that you can easily prevent.
Table of Contents
Common Dental Problems and Treatment
1. Tooth decay
Tooth decay is one of the most common dental issues all over the world. It usually occurs when plaque mixes with sugar or food particles on your teeth. This mixture creates acids that can damage your tooth enamel. Cavities are very common in children, but adults can also have one or several. Tooth enamel tends to erode with age and it’s a favorable condition for tooth decay appearance.
You can prevent tooth decay with the help of regular toothbrushing, flossing(1) and performing dental examinations. In order to keep your teeth intact as long as possible, it is better to avoid high sugar foods and drinks.
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2. Bad breath
Bad breath (halitosis) is quite an embarrassing condition. Some studies show that more than 80 percent of people who have problems with bad breath are suffering from some oral diseases and conditions. Tooth decay, gum disease, tooth gum pain, dry mouth, oral cancer, bacteria on the tongue, and other oral health problems can cause a very unpleasant odor.
If you think that an ordinary mouthwash can help you eliminate bad breath, you are completely mistaken because it can only mask the smell. Only a dentist can find the reason for the odor and help you get rid of it. Most common dental problems and treatment for it
3. Sensitive teeth
There is a lot of people who are suffering from tooth sensitivity. It usually manifests itself through discomfort or pain from cold or hot foods and drinks, cold air and sweets. In some cases, people can feel their teeth hurt when toothbrushing and flossing.
Increased tooth sensitivity can be a sign of some dental problems like tooth abscess or a cracked tooth. All these conditions should be treated in the dentist’s office in order to save the tooth and avoid infection in the jaw bone. If tooth sensitivity developed abruptly, it is better to make an appointment with the dentist and treat the cause of pain as soon as possible.
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4. Oral cancer
Oral cancer is a serious and even lethal disease that affects millions of people all over the world. This condition is most often observed in people over the age of 40. But with timely diagnosis and treatment, the early stages of this condition can be cured.
People who drink alcohol, smoke and chew tobacco are at risk of getting oral cancer. Human papillomavirus also raises your chance to get this condition. Symptoms of oral cancer include ulcers, lumps, and rough patches in the mouth. You may also feel changes in your bite and it can be difficult to chew or move your tongue.
Regular check-ups in the dentist’s office are the only possible way to prevent oral cancer. You can also ask your dentist about an oral cancer exam during your visit. If you have some difficulty with swallowing, chewing, or moving your tongue, it is better to make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible.
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5. Periodontal disease
Periodontal disease (gum disease)(2) is an infection of the gums near the teeth. This condition also leads to teeth loss in adults. Some researches discovered that there is a strong connection between periodontal disease and heart disease. This condition may appear in a person of any age, but it is more common for people after their 30’s. If you are a smoker, you have a much higher risk to get gum disease. People with dry mouth and diabetes are also prone to this condition. The main symptoms of periodontal disease are:
- Bad breath
- Red, swollen, and bleeding gums
- Sensitive teeth
- Painful chewing
Gum disease has two stages, gingivitis and periodontitis. You can prevent periodontal disease by thorough toothbrushing, flossing and regular check-ups in the dentist’s office. If you noticed any of gum disease symptoms, it’s better to make an appointment with your dentist. Only timely and proper treatment can help you to avoid complications.
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