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cosmetic dentistry

Common Dental Issues

There is a strong link between dental health and your overall health. Dental issues are common at any age, which is why it’s so important to visit the dentist regularly for check-ups. Learn more about the common dental issues most people face.

Cavities

Cavities, also known as tooth decay, are some of the most common dental issues plaguing America. Tooth decay happens when a combination of plaque and sugars generate acids that attack the tooth enamel. Avoiding tooth decay involves good oral hygiene–brushing twice a day, flossing, and visiting your dentist regularly.

Sensitive Teeth

If you feel pain when you consume hot or cold foods and beverages, something is off. This happens when you have receding gums or the outer layer of the tooth enamel has been torn away by decay. Using toothpaste for sensitive teeth may help, but if there’s a more severe issue, you may need a fluoride treatment or root canal.

Gum Disease

A mild form of gum disease is gingivitis, which causes gums to bleed easily. A professional cleaning at the dentist should help with this issue. On the other hand, waiting too late to get a handle on gingivitis could lead to periodontitis–an infection of the pockets in the gum. If you develop periodontitis, the tissue and bones that surround your teeth could become damaged. A dentist can treat periodontitis with antibiotics depending on the severity of the issue.

Mouth Sores

Mouth sores can be aggravating and painful. Typically, there is no cause for concern unless the mouth sores are around for over two weeks.

Common mouth sores include the following:

  • Canker sores: Located inside of the mouth.
  • Cold sores or fever blisters: Located on the edge of the outside lips. These come and go every so often, and are not curable.
  • Oral thrush: This is a yeast infection in the mouth that mostly affects babies, individuals who have diabetes, and individuals who wear dentures.

Dry Mouth

Dry mouth mostly affects older people but it can happen at any age. A dentist will advise you on the best ways to alleviate dry mouth. Some of the common causes of dry mouth include:

  • Nerve damage
  • Medications
  • Salivary gland disease
  • Diabetes
  • Cancer
  • HIV/AIDS

Bad Breath

Bad breath can be uncomfortable, especially when you’re in social settings. Oftentimes, a dental issue is the culprit. Many people turn to mouthwash, but that’s not a permanent solution, it only covers up the odor. If you have persistent bad breath, it’s a good time to consult with your dentist. Your dentist will evaluate the situation and determine the best course of action.

Bad breath is caused by many issues, such as:

  • Bacteria on the tongue
  • Bad oral hygiene
  • Acid reflux
  • Cavities
  • Dry mouth
  • Cancer

Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is a severe and fatal disease that can be cured if it’s caught and treated early on. Oral cancer is detected early with regular visits to your dentist. Some of the common risk factors for oral cancer include drinking alcohol, using tobacco, and HPV.

Symptoms of oral cancer include:

  • Rough areas of the mouth
  • Lumps
  • Sores
  • Hard to chew
  • Difficulty with moving jaw or tongue
  • Trouble with swallowing

Teeth Clenching or Grinding

It’s possible you might have a condition called bruxism if you clench or grind your teeth. If you do this constantly, it could lead to pain in your jaw, headaches, or tooth damage. Your dentist will be able to detect teeth grinding if your teeth are worn. You may be given a mouth guard to wear at night.

Contact Eriks Dental Group

A regular visit to the dentist is important for many reasons. Dental issues can be detected and treated early and you can avoid costly procedures down the road. If you believe you have a dental issue or simply want a check-up, contact our professional team at Eriks Dental Group at 561-733-4004 to schedule an appointment.