Common Oral Health Issues & How To Prevent Them

Any type of dental issue can be painful, as well as stressful. We all want to ensure that our dental health is at its prime, and that is why many of us know that brushing and flossing our teeth is a necessity. However, many do not know the importance of knowing the most common dental issues, and what to do to prevent them. 

More often than not, most dental issues can be prevented through brushing twice a day, flossing, eating a healthy diet, and regular dental checkups. Additionally, knowing the most common dental problems and what causes them is very beneficial in helping to prevent them. Afterall, we all want a healthy smile. 

Gum Disease

The most common form of gum disease is gingivitis. Gingivitis is considered to be the earliest stage and mildest form of periodontal disease. Essentially, gingivitis is a bacterial infection that results from a build up of plaque on the teeth and gums. The most common symptoms of gingivitis tend to be seen as red or swollen gums and also gums that bleed easily. Teeth sensitivity when chewing and bad breath are also common signs of gingivitis. However, gingivitis can be painless, which means that it can go unnoticed for extended periods of time. This can result in an advanced case of periodontal disease which is why regular check ups are a necessity. 

The main causes of gingivitis and periodontal disease are:

• Not brushing regularly

• Using poor brushing techniques

• Tobacco use

• Pregnancy

• Diabetes

Normally, gingivitis is treated by a thorough gum and teeth cleaning by a dental professional. In order to prevent gingivitis, or any other form of gum disease, brushing twice daily, flossing, and regular teeth cleanings are necessary. 

Tooth Decay

Tooth decay can also be referred to as dental cavities or dental caries. Tooth decay is the most common dental issue that is seen in dental patients. Almost every person has, at some point in their lives, experienced a cavity or some form of tooth decay. 

When bacteria forms a film on the surface of the teeth, it is called plaque. The bacteria that produce plaque contains different forms of acids that are created from sugars found in the food we consume. Over time, the acids eat away at the enamel of the teeth and permanently damage them. Once the acids eat through the enamel, they then continue on to damage the softer dentin layer of the teeth. 

As a direct result of the acid eating into the teeth, cavities or holes in the teeth will form. The common symptoms of tooth decay or dental cavities typically are toothaches, especially when eating something that is either hot or cold, as well as sweet foods. 

Other signs of tooth decay can include:

• Black or brown spots on the teeth

• Unpleasant taste in the mouth

• Bad breath

In order to prevent tooth decay or dental cavities, it is recommended that individuals brush their teeth twice daily, and are seen for regular teeth cleanings and check-up appointments. 

Bad Breath

Bad breath is often caused by poor oral hygiene. This means that people are not brushing and flossing their teeth properly. In order to prevent bad breath, it is important to brush and floss regularly. It is also important to eat healthy foods and avoid sugary drinks.

Gum can help to get rid of bad breath. This is because gum helps to increase saliva production. Saliva is important because it helps to wash away food and bacteria.

Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is a common problem with many causes. Tooth sensitivity is when the teeth are sensitive to hot or cold temperatures. When tooth sensitivity is caused by a cavity, then the solution is easy. Treatment of tooth sensitivity due to the cavity is done by filling the cavity. But when tooth sensitivity is caused by gum disease, then the solution is not that easy. 

Treatment of tooth sensitivity caused by gum disease is done by treating gum disease. It is often caused by tooth decay. In order to prevent tooth sensitivity, it is important to brush and floss regularly. It is also important to see a dentist for regular checkups.

Mouth Sores

Mouth sores are a common dental issue that affects a lot of people. They are small and can be painless or throbbing and painful. They are also generally easy to prevent. If you are experiencing a lot of mouth sores or you see a lot of them in the mirror, it might be a good idea to see your dentist. 

It is important to note that regular mouthwash or toothpaste will not cure mouth sores. They are caused by many different things, such as a recurring herpes infection or a severe case of canker sores. Unfortunately, mouth sores will not go away on their own, so you need to seek professional help.

Mouth sores are often caused by viral infections. In order to prevent mouth sores, it is important to practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing and flossing regularly. It is also important to avoid sharing utensils and cups with others.

Bruxism

Bruxism is a term used to describe clenching and grinding your teeth. It is the most common of all oral problems and can happen without the person even knowing it. Bruxism can be caused by many different factors including stress, anxiety, sleep apnea, or a misalignment of the teeth. The first step in preventing bruxism and dental damage is to identify the cause of the problem. 

The most common cause of bruxism is stress and anxiety. If stress is the cause of your bruxism, it is important to try to relax and relieve the stress in your life. You should also try to go to sleep earlier in order to give your body enough time to calm down and prepare for sleep. If you have a problem with sleep apnea, you should try to get it treated by a doctor.

Jaw pain is often caused by bruxism. In order to prevent jaw pain, it is important to see a dentist. They can help to fit you for a nightguard. A nightguard is a device that you wear at night to prevent you from grinding your teeth.

TMJ

The acronym TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint disorder. It is a disorder that causes pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint. The TMJ is a complex joint that is responsible for the up-and-down movement of the jaw, as well as the side-to-side movement. This joint is found at the front of the head and connects the lower jawbone to the skull. The TMJ is a hinge joint, similar to the one found in the elbow. This means that it moves in one direction only.

Many people suffer from dental issues, but they aren’t always aware of it. Even if a person doesn’t realize they have a dental issue, they might be experiencing some symptoms. While some dental issues are easy to identify, others are more difficult to pinpoint. For example, temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) is a condition that affects many people, but the symptoms aren’t always clear. TMJ is a condition that affects the jaw and the joint that connects the jaw to the skull. A person with TMJ can experience pain and stiffness in the jaw, ear pain, and headaches. TMJ can also cause a clicking or popping noise when the person speaks or yawns.

There are many common dental issues that dentists see daily. The number one thing that you can do to prevent dental problems is to maintain good oral hygiene. Be sure to brush and floss your teeth every day. It is also important to visit your dentist for regular check-ups and to have any necessary dental work done as quickly as possible. If you are struggling with dental issues, please contact your local dentist today. There are many dental issues that can be solved without having to spend too much time in the dental chair. The first step to having a healthy smile is by taking good care of your teeth.