Dental problems can be a major source of discomfort and embarrassment for many people. Whether it’s a toothache, a chipped tooth, or yellowing teeth, these issues can vastly affect anyone’s confidence and overall well-being.
In this article, we will discuss some of the most common dental problems and their treatments, so that you can better understand how to take care of your teeth and gums.
Some of the most common dental problems and their treatments are described below:
1. Tooth Decay: Also known as cavities, tooth decay is caused by the acid that a specific type of bacteria in the mouth produces. These acids attack the tooth enamel (and the layer under it, the dentin) until it erodes or develops pits. As the enamel and dentin erode, a cavity is created.
The treatment for tooth decay depends on the severity of the decay. Small cavities may only need a dental filling to fix the problem, but larger cavities may require a crown or even a root canal treatment.
2. Gum Disease: Also known as periodontal disease, gum disease is an infection of the tissues that surround and support the teeth. It’s caused by plaque and bacteria that is left untreated. This plaque can build up and irritate your gums, leading to soreness, swelling, and bleeding. In severe cases, it may lead to tooth loss.
Gum disease is an exceedingly common dental issue but largely preventable. Good oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist can prevent it from happening and, in the early stages of the disease, even reverse it.
More advanced gum disease may require more extensive treatment, such as deep cleaning (scaling and root planing), antibiotics, or surgery.
3. Tooth Sensitivity: This is a common dental issue that occurs when the inner layer of the tooth, called the dentin, becomes exposed. It can happen when the enamel on the tooth becomes thin or when the gums recede.
Tooth sensitivity can be caused by a wide variety of factors, including eating or drinking acidic foods, brushing and flossing too aggressively, using toothpaste that is too abrasive, and tooth decay.
In some cases, using toothpaste for sensitive teeth or switching to a softer toothbrush may be all that is needed. More severe cases that involve tooth decay may require treatment by a dentist, such as a filling or a crown.
4. Cracked or Broken Teeth: A fractured tooth is most often caused by an injury to the mouth, but may also be caused by teeth grinding, mouth piercings, or chewing on hard foods. It can be very painful and should need to be treated as soon as possible.
If the fracture or chip is small, your dentist may recommend a filling, crown, or root canal to save the tooth. But if the crack falls below the gumline, it may have to be extracted.
5. Receding Gums: Receding gums is a condition in which the gum tissue surrounding the teeth pulls back and exposes more of the teeth and their roots. It can be caused by genetics, smoking, hormonal changes, aggressive teeth brushing, and poor oral hygiene.
The treatment depends on what caused the receding gums and the damage caused. In mild cases, good oral hygiene can help prevent further recession and maintain the gum’s health. But severe cases may require grafting procedures.
Help is here.
If you’re suffering from a dental problem right now, you are not alone. A vast majority of people will experience some form of dental issue at some point in their lives. What’s important is that you address any dental issues as soon as possible to prevent more serious problems from happening in the future.
Call us now at 541-708-6288, and book an appointment. Let’s get that dental issue sorted out as soon as possible.
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