Our teeth play a significant role throughout our day, from chewing our food to allowing for an aesthetically pleasing smile. For the most part, maintaining good oral hygiene like tooth brushing and flossing help prevent major dental problems. However, there are some common dental challenges that we may still encounter.
Everyone struggles with dental issues at one point or another. That’s why there is a wide range of general and cosmetic dental services should a problem arise.
7 Common Dental Problems
1. Bad Breath
Halitosis, or bad breath, is common across all ages, and leads to feelings of embarrassment. As much as we brush our teeth, lingering bad breath still occurs.
While halitosis can be caused by what you’ve been eating, it may also be an indicator of a bigger dental concern. Bad breath is a common recurring symptom associated with underlying dental problems, including gum disease, cavities, or oral cancer.
Take note on the foods that you have been eating, such as garlic, onions, or fish. If brushing your teeth after every meal still results in bad breath, schedule a general dentist appointment to rule out more serious oral problems.
2. Gum Disease
Also known as periodontal disease, gum disease is an infection of the gums. Untreated gum disease can worsen and result in tooth loss.
Symptoms of gum disease include:
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Bad breath despite good oral hygiene
- Swollen, tender, or red gums around where they meet your teeth
- Loose teeth showing severe periodontal disease
Gum disease occurs from a build-up of plaque and bacteria. To deter gum disease, maintain proper oral hygiene and routine teeth cleaning appointments.
3. Tooth Decay
One of the most prevalent diseases in the U.S., which happens at any age, is tooth decay (cavities). A combination of plaque and food particles make an acid that eats away at tooth enamel, the protective layer of the tooth.
Reducing this build-up of plaque and food particles is possible by avoiding sugary foods and drinks, certain medications, and dry mouth issues. There are also preventative measures your dentist can recommend to reduce the risk of tooth decay.
Call 410.690.4855 for preventative dental care.
4. Missing Teeth
There are many issues that contribute to missing teeth, such as tooth decay and accidents. The problem with missing teeth is more than cosmetic. A gap may affect your speech and how you eat. It can also result in teeth shifting to fill in the space, or even bone loss in your jaw.
To prevent more serious dental problems, there are many options available from dental implants to bridges.
5. Tooth Sensitivity
Millions of people experience pain or discomfort from hot or cold drinks and sweets like ice cream. Tooth sensitivity impedes functionality and enjoyment of the finer things in life.
If you develop a tooth sensitivity or it becomes uncomfortable to brush or floss your teeth, reach out to a dentist today by calling 410.690.4855.
6. Oral Cancer
Oral cancer is a deadly dental problem that is considered a cancer of the head and neck. The death rates of oral cancer are higher than others because it doesn’t cause pain or show any primary symptoms. Although, it is often curable when caught and treated in the early stages.
Risk factors for oral cancer include:
- Tobacco use
- Alcohol use
- HPV
- Age, often seen in those over the age of 40
Regular visits to your dentist twice a year can help detect and diagnose oral cancer in the early stages. This simple screening can save lives.
7. Toothaches and Emergencies
A sudden and painful toothache is a common dental emergency. Other emergencies include:
- Knocked out tooth
- Cracked tooth
- Badly bit tongue or lip
- Objects stuck in the mouth
If you experience a toothache, clean your mouth by rinsing it with warm water. Try to floss gently to remove any particles of food caught in between your teeth. Call 410.690.4855 for dental trauma services in Columbia, MD.
Treating Common Dental Problems
Columbia Smiles is a family dental practice committed to serving Howard County. With the following dental services, we help adults and children achieve healthy teeth and gums:
- Dental fillings
- Periodontal treatment
- Root canal therapy
- Dental veneers
Contact Columbia Smiles by calling 410.690.4855 to schedule an appointment today.
