A dentist helps patients prevent, identify, and treat a wide range of oral health concerns that can affect comfort, appearance, and overall well-being. Common dental issues often start with mild symptoms but can worsen without timely care. Here’s more information on common dental issues and how to address them:
Treating Cavities and Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth decay affects patients of all ages and remains a primary reason for scheduling dental visits. Bacteria in the mouth feed on sugars and starches from food, and they produce acids that gradually erode the hard tooth enamel. Erosion eventually creates small holes in the tooth structure, known as cavities.
You may notice distinct sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures or visible dark spots on the surface of your teeth. A dentist removes the damaged tissue and restores the tooth with a filling material, such as composite resin or amalgam. Using toothpaste containing fluoride also strengthens enamel and helps teeth resist acid attacks.
Stopping Bleeding and Soothing Gums
Periodontal health is just as significant as tooth health, yet it is often neglected. Gum disease frequently begins without causing pain, so you must pay close attention to visual cues during your daily cleaning routine. You should review these specific indicators of gum inflammation:
- Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing may indicate the early stage of periodontal disease, known as gingivitis.
- Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth often signals a bacterial infection below the gum line.
- Receding gums, where the teeth appear longer than usual, indicate that the tissue is pulling away from the tooth.
Treating gum issues early is helpful for preventing permanent tooth loss and bone damage. Professional cleaning removes the hardened tartar that regular brushing cannot remove. If the condition advances to periodontitis, the dentist performs deep cleaning procedures to heal the infected gums.
Repairing Cracks, Chips, and Wear
Physical trauma and daily wear often compromise the structural integrity of a tooth. You may accidentally bite down on a hard object, such as ice or a popcorn kernel, or sustain an impact injury during physical activity. Teeth can also be damaged by chronic grinding, known as bruxism, which wears down the chewing surfaces over time. This physical damage exposes the tooth’s inner layers and increases the risk of infection entering the pulp.
A dentist evaluates the extent of the crack to determine the best restorative option. Minor chips often require cosmetic bonding to smooth the edge, and severe fractures may need a dental crown for full protection. It is helpful to wear a mouthguard during contact sports to prevent these sudden injuries.
Handling Wisdom Teeth
Issues often arise when third molars, commonly called wisdom teeth, attempt to erupt without sufficient space. These teeth can become impacted and frequently lead to infection, pain, or damage to the adjacent healthy teeth. You should look for these symptoms regarding jaw and tooth alignment:
- Swelling or tenderness in the back of the jaw suggests an issue with wisdom tooth eruption.
- Difficulty opening the mouth or experiencing chewing pain often points to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
- Shifting teeth or a sudden change in how the teeth fit together indicates crowding issues.
A dentist uses diagnostic imaging to check the position of wisdom teeth and the condition of the jaw. Removal is often the primary treatment when teeth cause pain or threaten the health of the rest of the mouth.
Visit a Local Dentist Today
Achieving optimal oral health requires a combination of consistent home care and professional supervision. You should not ignore minor symptoms, as they often indicate underlying issues that require immediate attention. A dentist provides guidance to navigate common dental challenges effectively. Contact a local dentist to schedule your dental appointment today.