Did you know that your mouth is home to over 700 different types of bacteria? While some of these bacteria are good for your oral health, others can contribute to the development of dental problems. This is why taking care of your teeth and gums is essential! Not sure how? Keep reading to learn about common dental health problems and solutions.
Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is one of the most common dental problems. It occurs when the bacteria in your mouth produce acids that eat away at the enamel on your teeth. If left untreated, tooth decay can lead to cavities, tooth sensitivity, and tooth loss. The best way to prevent tooth decay is to brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. You should also see your dentist for routine cleanings and checkups.
If you already have tooth decay, your dentist may recommend a treatment called dental sealants. Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth. They work by creating a barrier between the tooth and food particles, which helps to prevent tooth decay.
Bone loss
Bone loss occurs when the bone that supports your teeth begins to deteriorate. This can happen for several reasons, including periodontal disease, gum disease, and tooth loss. Bone loss can lead to loose teeth, difficulty chewing, and an increased risk of tooth loss. The best way to prevent bone loss is to practice good oral hygiene and see your dentist regularly. Your dentist will most likely recommend a dental implant for bone loss, especially if you have lost a tooth or teeth. Dental implants are titanium posts that are surgically implanted into the bone. They act as artificial roots and can support dental crowns, bridges, or dentures.
Gum Disease
Gum disease is an infection of the gums that can lead to tooth loss if neglected. Gum disease occurs when plaque buildup creates pockets around the teeth where bacteria can grow. These bacteria produce toxins that irritate the gums and cause them to become red, swollen, and bleed easily. Gum disease is usually painless in the early stages, so you must see your dentist regularly for checkups so it can be caught early. The best way to prevent gum disease is to brush twice daily, floss daily, and see your dentist regularly for cleanings.
If you have gum disease, your dentist may suggest a deep cleaning treatment called scaling and root planing. What does it do? Scaling involves removing plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. Root planing smooths out the surface of the roots, so that plaque and tartar are less likely to adhere to them.
Bad Breath
Bad breath (also known as halitosis) can be caused by various food choices, poor oral hygiene, dry mouth, sinus infections, or even certain medical conditions. The best way to prevent bad breath is to brush twice daily, floss daily, and see your dentist regularly for cleanings. You should also avoid foods with strong odors, like garlic or onions. You may need to see your doctor or dentist for further evaluation if you have chronic bad breath.
The standard treatments for bad breath are dental cleanings, mouthwashes, and mints. Dental cleanings remove plaque and tartar from your teeth, while mouthwashes help to kill bacteria and freshen your breath. Mints can also help to freshen your breath temporarily.
Cavities
Cavities are small holes in the teeth when they are not adequately cleaned. Cavities occur when plaque and bacteria build up on the teeth, creating acids that eat away at the tooth enamel. If left untreated, cavities can cause pain, tooth sensitivity, and even tooth loss. The best way to prevent cavities is to brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. You should also see your dentist for routine cleanings and checkups.
Your dentist will most likely recommend a dental filling if you already have cavities. Dental fillings fill in the holes that cavities form in the teeth. Fillings can be made from various materials, including gold, silver amalgam, and composite resin.
Yellow Teeth
Yellow teeth are often caused by drinking coffee or tea, smoking cigarettes, or taking certain medications like tetracycline antibiotics. While yellow teeth are not necessarily a sign of poor oral health, many people want their teeth to be white for cosmetic reasons. There are several over-the-counter whitening products available but it’s always best to consult with your dentist before using any product on your teeth as some products can damage the enamel on your teeth.
The bottom line
Taking care of your oral health is important for both aesthetic and health reasons! By brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and seeing your dentist regularly, you can help prevent common dental problems like tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. If you already have one or more of these problems, there are treatments available that can help alleviate symptoms and restore your oral health!
