Our pearly white (or vaguely yellow) chompers are not just the gateway for food and water. They play a vital role in our overall health and happiness. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore common dental concerns and explore their symptoms, causes, and potential treatments.
1- Gum (Periodontal) Disease
Gum disease, also known as Gingivitis, is an infection in the gums around teeth that can progress to Periodontitis, a more severe form. It’s a leading cause of adult tooth loss, and research suggests it may be linked to other health issues like heart disease and stroke.
Symptoms:
Bad breath
Red, swollen, tender, or bleeding gums
Sensitive teeth
Pain when chewing
Prevention:
Regular dental check-ups, brushing, and flossing can help prevent gum disease. Studies show that maintaining good oral hygiene can reduce the risk of gum disease by up to 70%. Moreover, a healthy diet, especially one low in sugar, is linked to a reduced risk of developing gum disease. It’s essential to maintain a balanced diet, avoiding excessive consumption of sugary and acidic foods.
2- Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity affects many people and can indicate underlying issues like cracked teeth or root infections.
Symptoms:
Either stinging, shocking, sharp sensations or dull aching responses to the following…
Sweets
Cold or hot drinks/foods
Cold air
Treatment:
Addressing the underlying cause through dental procedures can alleviate tooth sensitivity. Studies suggest that tooth sensitivity is prevalent in around 1 in 8 people. Dental professionals may recommend using desensitizing toothpaste, which can reduce sensitivity by up to 47%. Additionally, dental sealants can be applied to affected teeth to provide a protective barrier against sensitivity triggers. Proper dental care for sensitivity can significantly improve the quality of life for patients.
3- Oral Cancer
Oral cancer can be a serious and even deadly condition, but early detection and treatment increase the chances of successful recovery.
Risk factors:
Smoking or chewing tobacco
Alcohol use
Human papillomavirus (HPV)
Symptoms:
Sores, lumps, or rough areas in the mouth
Changes in bite or difficulty moving tongue or jaw
Prevention: Regular dental visits include an oral cancer exam as part of the checkup. Routine dental examinations can lead to early detection of oral cancer, improving survival rates up to 90%. Furthermore, those who smoke and drink alcohol heavily are six times more likely to develop oral cancer than non-smokers and non-drinkers. Avoiding or quitting smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are significant risk factors for developing oral cancer. Additionally, practicing safe oral sex can reduce the risk of transmitting HPV, a risk factor for oral cancer.
4- Unattractive Smile
While not a “dental problem” per se, an unattractive smile can affect self-esteem. Cosmetic treatments can help restore confidence and improve the overall appearance of teeth.
Cosmetic Options:
Various cosmetic dental treatments are available to address aesthetic concerns, including teeth whitening, fillings, veneers, crowns, bridges, implants, orthodontics, bonding, and inlays/onlays.
Cosmetic Dentistry Advancements:
Thanks to advancements in cosmetic dentistry, there are now various treatment options available to address aesthetic concerns. Teeth whitening procedures can effectively remove stains and discoloration caused by coffee, tea, tobacco, and other factors, enhancing the smile’s overall appearance. Porcelain veneers and dental crowns can cover chips, cracks, and gaps, creating a natural-looking and appealing smile. Orthodontic treatments, such as Invisalign, can straighten teeth discreetly and comfortably, resulting in a more harmonious and confident smile.
5- Mouth Sores
Common mouth sores include canker sores, fever blisters, cold sores, and thrush (oral candidiasis). Most are not worrisome unless lasting more than two weeks.
Treatment:
Medication can help treat and shorten their duration. For example, antiviral medications can reduce the duration of cold sores and promote faster healing. Additionally, over-the-counter oral gels and creams can alleviate discomfort associated with mouth sores. A dental professional can provide appropriate treatment and advice on managing recurrent mouth sores. Keeping the mouth clean and maintaining good oral hygiene can help prevent the development of some types of mouth sores.
6- Tooth Erosion
Tooth erosion, caused by consuming sugary and acidic foods over time, slowly wears away enamel and weakens teeth. Brushing too hard can also contribute to this condition.
Symptoms:
Discolored and rounded-looking teeth
Increased sensitivity and susceptibility to cracks and chips
Prevention:
Reducing sugary and acidic foods, using softer bristle toothbrushes, and considering dental veneers for improved appearance are key preventive measures. Research shows that a reduction in sugary beverage consumption can decrease the risk of enamel erosion and tooth decay by 31%. Furthermore, dental erosion is estimated to affect 30-50% of the population worldwide, making it a significant dental concern. Regular dental check-ups, at least twice a year, can help detect tooth erosion in its early stages and prevent further damage through proper dental care.
7- Tooth Decay
Tooth decay, or cavities, is the second most common health issue in the United States.
Causes:
Plaque combining with sugars/starches in food produces acids attacking tooth enamel.
Prevention:
Brushing, flossing, regular dental check-ups, and a healthy diet are essential for preventing tooth decay. Over 90% of adults in the US have experienced tooth decay, and dental cavities affect approximately 2.4 billion people worldwide. Fluoride toothpaste strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent cavities. Reducing the consumption of sugary snacks and drinks can significantly reduce the risk of tooth decay.
8- Bad Breath
Bad breath may signal underlying health issues.
Causes:
Gum disease, cavities, oral cancer, dry mouth, tooth root infection, bacteria on the tongue
Treatment:
Addressing the cause through dental care is essential for combating bad breath. Up to 25% of people suffer from chronic bad breath. Dental professionals may recommend tongue scraping and alcohol-free mouthwash for better oral hygiene. Maintaining a clean and healthy tongue can significantly reduce the number of odor-causing bacteria in the mouth.
9- Receding Gums
Receding gums can lead to tooth loss.
Causes:
Poor oral hygiene
Brushing too hard
High blood pressure, smoking, hormonal fluctuations
Treatment:
Thorough cleaning, proper brushing techniques, and gum graft or surgery can address receding gums. Gum recession is prevalent in around 10-12% of adults.
10- Toothaches and Dental Emergencies
Dental emergencies require prompt treatment.
Examples of Dental Emergencies:
Broken or cracked tooth causing severe pain
Knocked-out tooth due to an accident
Tooth abscess causing significant discomfort
Immediate Action:
Seek dental attention right away–whether from us here in Medford at Elite Dental or from your nearest dental professional. Dental emergencies account for 1.4% of all emergency department visits in the United States. Be prepared for dental emergencies, and consider over-the-counter pain relievers for temporary relief. When all is said and done, you may want to use ice packs to reduce swelling and alleviate pain before seeking professional treatment.
