Common Dental Problems and Solutions
Most people experience dental problems at some point in their lives, but knowing how to prevent issues, as well as what to do if you are experiencing a problem, will help. There are several common concerns that dentists deal with every day; here are some of the most frequent ones.
Tooth Decay
The most common issue that dentists see is tooth decay. Most adults have experienced tooth decay leading to dental caries, also known as dental cavities, and have had at least one filling. Tooth decay can happen if there is a buildup of plaque and bacteria on the teeth. Plaque is the sticky substance you can feel on your teeth, and it forms from food particles. The plaque produces acid which damages teeth and causes holes, or cavities, in teeth. It also hardens into tartar, a rough, hard deposit that provides a home for bacteria, and can only be removed by a dental professional. Sensitivity or pain in the tooth, discolourations, and visible holes are signs a tooth may be decayed.Solution:
Prevention is key. Proper oral hygiene can prevent tooth decay. Twice-daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste and daily flossing is important to remove the plaque before it hardens into tartar and before it damages teeth. Regular dental checkups to identify any issues early, and professional cleanings to remove tartar buildup are an important part of good dental care. Dentists can also provide topical fluoride treatments and fissure sealants to help prevent decay. However, if you do develop tooth decay, a visit to the dentist for a filling is necessary. The decayed portion of the tooth is cleaned out, and filling material placed to restore strength to the tooth. New composite fillings are tooth-coloured, and very discreet.
Periodontal (Gum) Disease
Gum diseases are very common dental problems. Gum diseases are infections caused by plaque and tartar irritating the gums. It starts with gingivitis, a mild form of gum disease, characterized by red or swollen gums, and potentially bleeding gums when brushing and flossing. Gingivitis is reversible, but without proper dental care, it can progress to periodontal disease, which can't be reversed, although it can be managed. This stage leads to receding gums, and potentially bone and tooth loss.Solution:
Preventing gum disease through excellent oral hygiene and regular dental visits is best. If early symptoms of gum disease are noticed, you should make a dentist appointment to have this dental problem checked out right away, before it has a chance to progress. Tartar removal by a dental professional helps prevent and treat gum disease. If buildup is significant, root planing and scaling may be needed. Antibiotics or surgery may be needed for more advanced gum disease.
Bacterial Infection
A range of infections can establish in the soft tissues of the mouth. This can lead to sores and abscesses around the mouth. A tooth infection is possible, if infection reaches the dental pulp in the roots of a tooth. Also known as a root infection or root canal infection, the pulp, which is composed of nerves, blood vessels, and tissues, becomes diseased.Solution:
Sores inside the mouth may resolve on their own; if they last for more than a couple of weeks, or are severe, see your dentist right away. If you have extreme pain in a tooth, it may be signs of a root canal infection. A root canal treatment will need to be completed, as soon as possible, to avoid losing the tooth. Despite their reputation, root canal procedures are not painful.
Chronic Bad Breath
Bad breath can be caused by medical or dental issues. On the dental side, poor oral hygiene, tooth decay, dry mouth, gum disease, and other common dental problems may cause bad breath. The bad odour is caused by the bacteria associated with these conditions.Solution:
Professional dental cleanings remove plaque, which can be a home for smelly bacteria, to help improve your breath. Drinking more water can also help, if dehydration is a factor. If you are maintaining excellent oral hygiene, and you don't have a medical condition that may be causing bad breath, check with your dentist. This allows the underlying cause of your bad breath to be treated or managed.Tooth Sensitivity
Another of the most common dental problems is sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks. It's often caused by thinning tooth enamel, but it can be a symptom of other dental issues, such as decay.Solution:
Let your dentist know about your sensitivity, so the root cause of it can be identified, and the underlying problem can be treated. Sensitivity toothpastes are available to reduce discomfort.
Tooth Erosion
As mentioned above, thinning enamel is a common cause of sensitivity. Thinning happens as you age, but it is also caused by tooth enamel erosion. Excessive wear to teeth, sugars, and acids will cause dental erosion. Tooth enamel erosion weakens teeth, increasing the risks of cracks and chips.Solution:
Avoid sugary and acidic foods that can lead to further tooth erosion. Your dentist may recommend a fluoride mouthwash or a remineralizing toothpaste. Enamel can't grow back, but it can be strengthened.Teeth Grinding
Damage to teeth, jaw pain and TMJ disorder, headaches, and other issues can all stem from teeth grinding. Stress, obstructive sleep apnea, and malocclusion (poor bite) are common causes of it.Solution:
Day or nighttime mouth guards prevent teeth damage and alleviate jaw pain. Custom guards fit better and are more comfortable. Special mouth guards for sleep apnea help position the jaw better to open airways and reduce grinding.Oral Cancer
Oral cancer is more common than most people think. Sores that don't heal, lumps, and rough, red or white patches, or other irregularities are symptoms of oral cancer. Difficulty swallowing or moving the jaw are also signs. However, many people with it don't notice symptoms.Solution:
Seeing your dentist regularly so this serious oral health concern can be identified as early as possible is important. Good nutrition, and avoiding alcohol and tobacco products reduce your risks. Radiation, chemotherapy and surgery are common methods to treat oral cancer; the earlier a diagnosis is made and treatment can begin, the better the outcome.Maintain Good Oral Health with Regular Dental Checkups
Regular visits to the dentist helps prevent issues, with preventative dentistry treatments like sealants and professional cleaning. In addition, any dental problems are identified early, and can be treated sooner, for better results. The professional team at Tooth Buds Dentistry can answer any questions you have about common dental problems and solutions. We perform thorough diagnostics during checkups, and conveniently treat many concerns in-office, to help our patients.
Dr. Prabhdeep Kaur, a General Dentist, has been enriching the field of dentistry with her expertise for over 13 years, having obtained her license in Canada in 2015. A holder of a BDS degree, Dr. Kaur’s proficiency spans a wide array of dental services, including General and Cosmetic Dentistry, Wisdom Teeth Extractions, Invisalign, and more. Her commitment to her craft is further evidenced by her memberships in prestigious organizations like the Ontario Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, and the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario.
Renowned for her patient-focused approach, Dr. Kaur emphasizes the importance of listening and customizing treatments to meet individual needs, viewing dentistry not only as a science but also as an art form dedicated to enhancing and restoring smiles. Her dedication to ongoing education ensures she remains at the cutting edge of dental advancements.
Outside her professional life, Dr. Kaur enjoys family time, travel, and cinema, adding a relatable and approachable dimension to her persona. She is passionate about delivering professional and quality dental care, driven by her desire to connect with people and address their dental needs effectively.
Dr. Kaur’s journey in dentistry serves as an inspiration for aspiring dental professionals, advocating determination, motivation, and enjoyment in their work. Follow her journey and professional updates on Instagram @drprabh84, where she continues to inspire both her patients and peers in the dental community.
