Common Dental Problems

Dental patients have multiple reasons for why they need dental work performed, but there are a few common issues that dental offices see most often. From tooth decay to sensitivity, or chipped teeth and oral cancer, dental problems vary from person to person. Luckily, most dental complications are completely treatable, especially as you commit to a good oral health regimen and healthy dental habits. Learn about what dental problems dentists see the most often and how you can avoid them with this guide!

Dental Problems In Children & Adults

Millions of Americans visit the dentist each year for various reasons and concerns. Although your reason for visiting the dentist might be completely different than another’s, there are a few common dental problems that most dentists encounter on a daily basis, ranging from tooth decay to oral cancer. Experiencing a dental problem at some point in your life is extremely common and expected. The reason for your issue could be an injury, decay, pain or sensitivity. Although most issues aren’t serious, there are some problems that dentists treat that can be dangerous. One of the most treated problems that dentists see on a regular basis deals with cavities caused by decay. Cavities are most often seen in young children and teenagers, and are caused by the buildup of plaque on the teeth, which destroys tooth enamel. Brushing and flossing each day can help you easily avoid cavities, but some patients will need a dental crown to fix their cavity. Children also tend to experience more mouth injuries from accidents or sports, which can cause long-lasting damage to their teeth and gums. Mouthguards are especially helpful for active kids and can prevent a simple fall or injury from progressing into something worse.

As we age, adults become more prone to dental problems. Gum disease is a painful and destructive oral health problem that many adults suffer from. Gingivitis is the first step in gum disease, and can be reversed if treated early on. When not treated, gingivitis can lead to periodontitis, causing receding and bloody gum lines and tooth loss. Older patients tend to experience more tooth loss, which affects their ability to speak and eat. Bridges, dentures and implants are typically used to fill the spaces where teeth used to be. Another common problem in adults is dry mouth, which is caused by a lack of saliva in the mouth from medications or existing medical conditions. Saliva helps cleanse teeth and gums, so patients with dry mouth are more likely to develop tooth decay and other oral problems. Infectious oral disease, such as oral herpes, can cause cold sores and blisters to develop on the lips, tongue and cheeks, which can be painful and very difficult to get rid of. The most serious issue, seen mostly in adults, is oropharyngeal cancer, which affects the oropharyngeal cavity that contains the lips, gum tissue, jaw, throat and cheeks. Oral cancer can be deadly, and treatment will be absolutely necessary. Symptoms of mouth and throat cancer include thick/hard spots or lumps, sores that bleed easily and don’t heal, numbness/pain/tenderness, a roughened or crusty area and a change in the way the teeth fit together. Whether you’re experiencing a minor or severe dental problem, it is still a good idea to meet with your dentist to identify any underlying issues and prevent further damage from developing.

Importance of Oral Hygiene

Some of the dental problems we have discussed sound scary and intimidating, but most of them can be remedied by sticking to a good oral hygiene routine. We are busy people, so sometimes it’s hard to maintain a good oral health routine, which is understandable. Our teeth are the hardest substances in our bodies, but even they can deteriorate under the influence of bacteria and plaque. Brushing and flossing daily removes plaque from our teeth, which cleans our teeth and gums while protecting them from cavities and gingivitis. Mouthwash can keep bacteria from growing, which encourages saliva production and reduces dry mouth. Regular dental checkups with your dentist will help them diagnose serious issues, such as oral cancer, before it can cause major damage. These visits allow your dentist to perform X-rays on your teeth to see their movement and deep clean your teeth to keep them strong, healthy and disease-free. Committing to a daily oral health regimen now and sticking to it will not only give you a beautiful smile but protect you from many of the common dental issues that patients around the country suffer from. The benefits of having healthy teeth are well worth the effort!

Dental Services Available

When you come in for your dental checkup, there are other services available that you can opt in for to maintain your oral health. Some services available at most dental offices include oral hygiene instructions, dental sealants, teeth whitening, X-rays, oral cancer screenings, sedation dentistry, comprehensive exams, extractions and dental implants. Whether you’re looking for cosmetic procedures, such as teeth whitening, or restorative treatments, like implants, the dentist can provide that for you. Schedule an appointment with your dentist to discuss any dental issues you’re dealing with and safeguard your teeth from decay and disease.

Scheduling Your Next Appointment

At Stonebrook Family Dental, we offer dental services to both children and adults alike. Our experienced staff is dedicated to your oral health needs and is equipped with the most advanced technology and equipment to remedy any dental issues you may be experiencing. Call our office at (303) 872-7907 to schedule a consultation and begin your journey to a healthier smile!