No matter how much we try to take care of our teeth, some tooth and gum issues are simply inescapable. Here are the most common tooth and gum issues that a dentist’s office can help prevent, or at least provide the solution to:
Cavities
Cavities are the most common tooth problem that a dentist fixes every year. Cavities are small areas of the tooth that decay and even cause holes. Cavities occur when food, bacteria, and acid coat the tooth and form a plaque. The acid actually eats away at the enamel on your tooth and can reach the dentin or connective tissue given enough time. If not treated with a filling, a cavity can lead to permanent damage to the tooth.
Gum Disease
More commonly known as gingivitis, gum disease is an inflammation of your gums. If you have poor brushing and flossing routines for a long period of time, your gums will appear swollen and may bleed when brushing or flossing your teeth. Gingivitis occurs when plaque is allowed to build up on the teeth.
Periodontitis
Periodontitis is a more serious infection that follows gingivitis. This infection, if left to progress untreated, can spread to your jaw and bones as well as cause inflammation throughout the body. This can lead to tooth loss or other serious complications.
Sensitive Teeth
Many people suffer from sensitive teeth and may even use a sensitivity toothpaste to make consumption of hot or cold foods and beverages more tolerable. You may experience sensitive teeth temporarily after a cavity filling or root canal, though chronic sensitivity can be caused by receding gums, gum disease, word-down crowns or fillings, or a cracked tooth. You may also experience sensitive teeth if you have thinner enamel.
Broken or Cracked Teeth
Cracked and broken teeth most commonly result from an injury, such as taking a soccer ball or a stair to the mouth after falling, though you may also experience cracked teeth from chewing too hard into certain foods or grinding your teeth with too much force during your sleep. You’ll know right away if you have a broken or cracked tooth since it is extremely painful.