Many people face dental problems in their lives. Some issues can be simple to treat, while others require the care of a professional emergency dentist near you. Here, we will learn about some common dental problems that many people experience and how to solve them. Understanding this will help you keep your teeth and gums healthy.
1. Tooth Decay (Cavities)
The most common dental condition is tooth decay, also known as cavities, which affects the enamel (a protective shield for your tooth). When sugars in your mouth are broken down by bacteria into acids, your enamel is slowly affected, leading to holes in the teeth, which are often referred to as “cavities.”
Symptoms of Tooth Decay
- Toothache or pain
- Experiencing sensitivity while consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods
- Visible holes in your teeth
How to Fix It?
It is recommended to visit a dentist to get the right treatment for tooth decay. They can fix the small cavity caused by decay through a filling. This process involves removing the decaying area in the tooth and filling the hole with a special material that will make the tooth strong again. A large cavity, which cannot be treated by filling, requires a crown to protect the tooth. Sometimes, a root canal also becomes essential.
2. Gum Disease (Gingivitis and Periodontitis)
Gum diseases are another common dental problem that many people may experience. Gum disease, or gingivitis, is inflammation of the gums. Without treatment, it can advance to periodontitis, resulting in damage to the bones of the teeth.
Common Symptoms of Gum Diseases
- Red, swelling, or bleeding gums
- Experiencing bad breath
- Gums pulling away from the teeth
- Loose teeth
How to Fix It?
In the early stages of gum disease, such as gingivitis, the condition can often be treated by following oral habits such as brushing and flossing teeth. An antibacterial mouthwash can be useful. In case periodontitis has become severe, a dentist may clean under the gums by performing scaling and root planing to remove the bacteria. In more severe cases of gum disease, a professional might recommend surgery to treat the issue.
3. Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is a type of dental diseases where you experience teeth sensitivity while consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods. This condition can arise because of tooth decay, gum disease, or worn-out enamel.
Tooth Sensitivity Symptoms
- You are experiencing a sharp pain while eating or drinking something hot, cold, or sweet.
- Sensitivity to cold air.
How to Fix It?
For tooth sensitivity, a dentist may prescribe a specific toothpaste for sensitive teeth. The dentist may also apply fluoride to the sensitive parts to make the enamel harder. If the sensitivity is caused by gum recession (the gums pulling away from the tooth), the dentist may need to cover the exposed roots to reduce the sensation.
4. Bad Breath (Halitosis)
Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be embarrassing and is also considered an early signs of dental trouble. It can be the result of several factors, such as poor oral hygiene, gum disease, or an underlying medical condition.
Symptoms of Bad Breath
- Persistent bad odour from the mouth
- Bad taste inside the mouth
How to Fix It?
Brushing and flossing your teeth every day may solve the problem of bad breath. Pay attention to brushing your tongue and tongue-breeding bacteria through the use of a tongue scraper. In other instances, bad breath is occasioned by gum disease and tooth decay. In that case, it is essential to visit a dentist to treat the issue. Sometimes bad breath could be due to dry mouth; your dentist would prescribe a mouthwash.
5. Cracked or Chipped Teeth
Cracked or chipped teeth may result from a bite on something hard, injury, or grinding at night. Depending on the severity of the crack or chip teeth, your dentist may recommend a dental treatment.
Signs of Cracked or Chipped Teeth
- Sharp pain when biting food
- Feeling a rough edge on the tooth
- Experincing sensitivity while consuming hot or cold food and drinks
How to Fix It?
For minor chips, the dentist can smooth the rough edge or apply a filling to repair it. A more extensive crack requires a crown to cover the tooth and prevent it from breaking further. In some cases where the crack reaches the pulp (the soft tissue inside the tooth), a root canal might be required.
6. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
It is also known as bruxism, where a person clenches or grinds their teeth, usually while sleeping. Over time, it can affect your teeth and lead to complications, such as jaw pain.
Common Symptoms of Bruxism
- Worn-down teeth
- Jaw pain or headaches
- Cracked or chipped teeth
How to Fix it?
If you have a habit of grinding your teeth during sleep, your dentist may recommend a night guard. This custom-fitted appliance helps to protect your teeth during sleep time. Generally, dentists advise you to wear a night guard every night to shield your teeth. Stress could be another cause, and one way of managing it is by finding stress-reducing tips.
7. Problems Related to Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth are your last teeth to emerge. Commonly, they come in during the late teens and early twenties. But sometimes, the space in your mouth is inadequate for these to emerge pain-free and without infection.
What Are Signs of Issues with Wisdom Teeth?
- Back of mouth pain
- Swollen or bleeding gums
- Pain in your jaw
How to Fix it?
Some dentists may recommend that your wisdom teeth be extracted if they can create problems. It is one of the most common procedures, and extraction will help prevent any future issues and pains.
Achieve a Perfect Smile With Expert Care Today!
At Avyan Family Dental, we offer excellent care that helps you achieve a perfect smile. Our dentist in NW Calgary evaluates the issue and addresses it effectively. We ensure that your visit to our dental clinic is positive for you and your family with our comfort and quality care. Achieve the smile you have always desired with expert care from Avyan Family Dental. Make an appointment today for personalized, gentle dental care.