4 Common Dental Health Conditions

Dental health is a crucial factor in well-being. Although dental health problems can be troublesome, the good news is that most of them are treatable and preventable. Proper oral hygiene, the right diet, and regular dental checkups go a long way in prevention.

Knowledge of the common oral health conditions can also go a long way in prevention. Discover these common dental issues.

1. Halitosis

Also referred to as chronic bad breath, halitosis is common across all ages and can be embarrassing. Halitosis could result from smoking, poor dental hygiene, dry mouth, cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer. Bad breath can also be from food you eat like garlic, onions, sweets, or spices like cumin.

You can use mouthwash, breath strips, or mints as a temporary fix for bad breath. Chronic halitosis is often a sign of underlying medical conditions. If your bad breath never goes away despite observing proper oral hygiene, visit your dentist so they can help you deal with the problem.

2. Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is otherwise known as cavities or dental caries. Tooth decay occurs when acids from bacteria on the surface of your tooth break down the tooth enamel. Cavities are among the most common dental issue. According to the CDC, more than 90% of adults have experienced tooth decay.

Consumption of free sugars in food or drinks and smoking are among the leading causes of cavities in adults. Lack of proper oral hygiene is also to blame in the case of children. Symptoms of tooth decay include:

• Tooth pain
• A visible hole on your tooth
• Tooth stains
• Tooth sensitivity

If you notice any warning signs, visit your dentist as soon as possible for an oral exam or x-ray. Your dentist might suggest a tooth filling, root canal, or extraction for the treatment depending on the severity of the decay.

Prevention is better than cure. Therefore, strive to maintain proper oral hygiene, and have regular dental checkups. Also, make an effort to avoid sugary foods and drinks.

3. Gum Disease

Gum disease is an infection of the gums that surround and support the tooth. The disease has three developing stages: gingivitis, periodontal disease, and acute periodontal disease.

Gingivitis is less severe and easily treatable, but it may lead to periodontitis if not dealt with immediately. Gingivitis causes swelling and reddening of the gums, while periodontitis can damage the bone and tissues that support your teeth.

Smoking, diabetes, and dry mouth are common causes of gum disease. Symptoms for gum disease include:

• Bleeding gums
• Bad breath
• Red or swollen gums
• Loose teeth
• Pus around teeth base
• Enlarging space between teeth

Professional cleaning can treat gingivitis. Periodontitis, however, requires treatment that is more extensive. The treatment options include medication, surgery, or deep cleaning, depending on the severity. Brush and floss every day to help prevent gum disease.

4. Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity causes discomfort when you expose your teeth to hot, cold, or acidic food or beverages. Flossing or brushing the teeth can also discomfort. Dentist exposure from decayed, cracked, or damaged enamel is often the cause of tooth sensitivity.

Desensitizing toothpaste or dental crowns treat tooth sensitivity. Sometimes in severe cases, dental implants are used. If you experience tooth sensitivity, make an appointment with your dentist for an examination.

Remember to brush twice, clean between your teeth using floss daily, and visit your dentist regularly for checkups. If you experience the above conditions or any other dental problem, contact us to book you a checkup today. We look forward to helping you with your dental needs and will happily answer any questions or concerns you have.