7 Common Oral Issues You Should Know About

Even though teeth look simple on the surface, they are properly built to accomplish a variety of tasks. They allow us to talk, eat, and express ourselves; the appearance of our teeth even influences our self-esteem. Taking care of your teeth with appropriate dental hygiene ensures that they will remain healthy for the rest of your life, while also enhancing your overall health. Even if you take proper care of your teeth, you may experience dental issues such as sensitive teeth, a toothache, or a dental injury.

The majority of common dental issues may be avoided. Brushing twice a day, flossing every day, eating a balanced diet, and having regular dental check-ups are all necessary. Educating yourself on common dental disorders and their causes can also help prevent them. Here is a list of seven common oral issues you should know about.

1. Cavities

Cavities are perhaps the most common type of tooth issue. When harmful bacteria produce acids that erode protective tooth enamel, cavities or tooth decay develop, creating a hole in the tooth's surface. Tooth decay affects people of all ages, but it is most common in adults and children, who like sweets but may not have optimal oral hygiene practices.

The most common method of treating cavities is to remove the deterioration and fill in the empty area. Modern dental fillings are generally tooth-colored, so they do not interfere with the beauty of your smile. If the cavity is especially severe, it can be necessary to install a dental crown instead. To avoid future toothaches, a root canal may be required initially.

2. Tooth sensitivity

You can have a cavity or a periodontal abscess if only one or two of your teeth are sensitive to hot or cold temperatures. A more widespread sensitivity might be caused by conditions like enamel wear, gum recession, or teeth grinding. Brushing your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush and specific toothpaste can help to decrease or eliminate sensitivity at home. If your tooth sensitivity remains after a few weeks, see a dentist to find out what's causing it.

3. Gum disease

Gum disease is an inflammation of the gums that surround the teeth. It is also a significant cause of adult tooth loss. Some research suggests a relationship between gum disease and heart issues. Gum disease may affect anyone. However, it is most common after the age of 30. Significant risk factors include smoking, diabetes, and dry mouth. The symptoms of gum disease are:

- Bad breath

- Gums that are red, swollen, painful, or bleeding

- Teeth sensitivity

- Chewing pain

Gingivitis is the medical term for mild gum disease. Periodontitis is a severe form of gum disease. They may be avoided with regular dental checkups, brushing, and flossing. If you notice any symptoms of gum disease, consult your dentist. Treatment can help to avoid complications like tooth loss.

4. Broken tooth

Teeth can break, sometimes without any obvious cause. The dentist will offer treatments based on the state of the tooth. In most cases, dental crowns are suggested to avoid deep and severe fractures. The situation becomes more difficult if you have temperature-sensitive teeth. When the crack reaches the gum line, the dentist may recommend root canal treatment and the placement of porcelain crowns.

5. Enamel wear

Enamel wear, also known as enamel erosion, is a slow-developing disorder that causes teeth to become discolored and flattened. Its major cause is a long period of consumption of sugary and acidic meals such as soda and sweets. Brushing your teeth too often, too aggressively, and for too long can also result in this issue.

Enamel erosion causes teeth to become very sensitive, weak, and prone to fractures, chipping, and cupping. On teeth with enamel erosion, the lost enamel can't be replaced but you can undergo dental bonding to protect them. Cut down on sugary and acidic meals to significantly avoid additional enamel wear. Using toothbrushes with softer bristles is also beneficial. Dental veneers and crowns can also significantly improve the look of your teeth.

6. Teeth discoloration

Foods, medications, smoke, and trauma may all darken your teeth. You may whiten them in three ways. You can undergo in-office teeth whitening when a whitening agent and a specific light can be used by your dentist. You may also bleach them at home using a plastic tray and gel purchased from your dentist or a shop. Whitening toothpaste and whitening rinses are the most basic options, however, they only remove surface stains.

7. Teeth grinding

Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism can be caused by stress, an improperly aligned bite, or as a sign of a TMJ disorder. Grinding not only leads to the development of pain in the muscles around the jaw, but it can also cause irreversible damage to teeth by wearing them down or creating chips and fractures.

To manage your bruxism, your dentist should first determine the source of your teeth grinding. If the issue is solely behavioral or will require therapy over a longer length of time (for example, orthodontic care), they will give a custom mouthguard to protect your teeth at night.