You keep your dental cleaning appointment every six months like clockwork, but this time, when the x-rays are checked out by your doctor, there is bad news. Despite your brushing and flossing, a little cavity has developed between two molars. The doc says don’t worry, this is very common, and although you have never had one before, treating cavities is very easy for them to do for you. Taking care of it now will make sure this little cavity doesn’t become a huge headache.
So, what are the most common dental problems?
Tooth decay, gum diseases, and oral cancer are among the causes of common dental issues. They appear in a variety of degrees and treatment depends on how severe the case is. Smoking, eating sugary foods, and poor oral hygiene can lead to these problems.
You may not experience all these problems, but you will more than likely have to deal with one of them in your adult life. Understanding the symptoms and treatments can help you or your loved ones.
So, What are the Symptoms of These Common Dental Problems?
Tooth decay happens when the enamel, or hard covering, of your teeth, is destroyed by plaque. This dental condition is better known as cavities and can be easily identified in X-rays. Other symptoms include softening, pain, or discomfort in your teeth.
Symptoms of gum disease, also called gingivitis, include swollen and irritated gums due to infection. If this worsens, it can become periodontitis, which can lead to bleeding or receding gums and tooth loss.
Oral cancer commonly occurs as sores that do not heal or white patches and can be detected by screening during regular check-ups. Sores and patches can appear anywhere in the mouth, including the tongue, lips, and cheeks.
So, What are the Treatments?
The treatment for cavities depends on how quickly they have been detected and how badly they have developed. Small ones can be dealt with by fillings. A local anesthetic is administered, and the filling process is relatively fast. Larger cavities may require a crown, which is fitted to replace what has been lost from cracked or decayed teeth. The most extensive treatment is a root canal, which is performed to save a tooth in which the decay or infection has reached the inner level of the tooth.
Infections of the gum can be treated with antibiotics, or, in some cases, a deep cleaning can do the job. If the case is very severe, surgery could be an option to eliminate the disease.
Oral cancer is treated similarly to other types of cancer through surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Which of these is used depends on the cancer’s stage. Early detection gives you the best chance of getting rid of cancer, which is why visiting the dentist twice a year for check-ups is very important.
Related Questions
So, What are Some Prevention Tips?
Staying away from tobacco products and lots of sugary foods will keep your mouth much healthier. Try eating a real apple instead of apple-flavored fruit snacks that stick to your teeth.
So, What are Some Proactive Tips?
All dental problems can be dealt with much easier if caught early on, so maintaining regular visits with your dentist is a great idea. You also need to stick with the schedule of brushing twice a day, flossing, and using mouthwash.
Summing Up
You want to keep those pretty white teeth and healthy-looking gums as long as possible. But if problems come up, like receding gums or tooth pain, be sure to see your dentist, who can help diagnose your situation and get you on the right treatment plan. Who knows, they may also throw in a new toothbrush.
Visiting the dentist twice a year will help with your overall dental health, so what are you waiting for? Call Sedki Dentistry in Commerce Twp today to schedule a dental checkup. Our dental clinic addresses all dental issues by offering dental treatments, cosmetic dentistry, children’s dentistry and so much more. A healthy mouth and smile begin by being proactive about your dental health. Call today!