Regular teeth brushing and flossing - and bi-yearly checkups - are the best ways to avoid dental problems. That said, there are treatments available if and when common dental problems do arise.
When faced with a dental problem, you can book an appointment with a professional, whether that be a Boynton Beach dentist or your local dentist, to diagnose and treat your situation.
Consider the warning signs of the three most common dental problems so that you can act fast and get the treatment options you need to restore your oral health.
1. Cavities
The Problem:
Cavities are one of the most common dental problems experienced and are easily identifiable. Cavities appear overtop teeth as a sticky-like substance known as plaque. This plaque forms when food is left in your teeth and causes bacteria to build up.
Plaque can be detrimental to your health if not dealt with, as it can cause decay at the gum line and lead to other gum conditions.
The Treatment:
You can avoid cavities by regularly brushing and flossing your teeth. The good news is that, when caught early, this dental problem is easy to treat.
According to the Mayo Clinic, fluoride can help get rid of the plaque when you catch a cavity early enough. Most commonly, however, fillings are used to treat plaque and decay.
Dentists professionally remove cavities and then use a filling to fill in the hole left. More intrusive treatments for severe decay caused by cavities include crowns, root canals, and if the dentist can't restore your tooth, tooth extraction.
2. Gum Diseases
The Problem:
Gum diseases like periodontitis and gingivitis are common dental problems. In fact, according to the CDC, half of Americans over the age of 30 have periodontitis.
Gingivitis is gum inflammation caused by plaque build-up, which occurs due to irregular brushing and flossing. This condition is easy to spot as it causes your gums to bleed and swell when you brush or floss.
It is important to spot the warning signs of gingivitis as it can cause periodontitis down the line, which is much more severe. Healthline explains that if periodontitis spreads to your jaw and bones, it can cause inflammation.
The Treatment:
Gingivitis is a common problem treated by removing any built-up plaque from your teeth. A dentist can remove this plaque through professional cleaning.
Periodontitis, on the other hand, requires more treatment. To treat the condition, dentists scale the teeth to remove bacteria, do root planning to remove the root surface and bacteria, and sometimes prescribe antibiotics in case of an infection. Dentists may use soft tissue grafts or bone grafting to treat the condition in more complicated situations.
3. Sensitive Teeth
The Problem:
According to Colgate, at least 40 million adults in the U.S. experience teeth sensitivity. Teeth sensitivity is temporary and incredibly common but can be extremely uncomfortable.
When you have sensitive teeth, your teeth are hypersensitive to temperatures and acidic foods or tastes. This sensitivity occurs when the enamel is stripped down, which can be caused by various factors:
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Forceful brushing
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Gingivitis
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Recessed gums
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Cracked teeth
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Build up
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Teeth grinding
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Mouthwash overuse
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Acidic foods
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Dental procedures like professional cleanings
The Treatment:
Teeth sensitivity ranges in severity and can come and go over time. The best treatment will depend on your specific experience. If you are continually experiencing sensitivity, consider making an appointment with your dentist. A dentist can apply a sealant to your teeth that will protect them from further enamel damage.
Treatments for less severe sensitivity include the using soft-bristled brushes, fluoridated mouthwash, and a mouth guard to prevent tooth grinding. People with sensitive teeth will also want to stay away from foods that are high in acid.
In more severe cases, people with teeth sensitivity may opt for bonding, crowns, inlays, fluoride gel, a surgical gum graft or, as a last resort, root canals.
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