Common Dental Problems

If you care about your teeth than taking a step today will go a long way. Remember, Prevention is better than cure. So, dental problems can be easily prevented by brushing teeth daily twice a day, flossing daily and regular dental check ups.

1. Bad Breath

Bad breath( halitosisdefine) is a problem faced by millions of people in U.S. Bad breath can be downright embarrassing. Studies have shown that nearly 85 percent of people with persistent bad breath have a dental condition that is to blame. Gum disease, diabetes, gastrointestinal disturbance, cavities, oral cancerdefine, tobacco use, dry mouth and bacteria on the tongue are some of the dental problems that can cause bad breath. If you’re concerned about bad breath, see your dentist.

2. Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is a serious and deadly disease. It can form in any part of the mouth or throat. Most oral cancers begin in the tongue and in the floor of the mouth. Male above age of 40 who use tobacco or alcohol or have a history of head or neck cancer are at higher risk for oral cancer. Disease can be highly curable if diagnosed and treated in the early stages.

3. Gum (Periodontal) Disease

Gum disease is a serious infection which if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss. Periodontal disease can affect one tooth or many teeth. A study has linked periodontal, or gum diseases to systemic health conditions including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and respiratory problems. There are two major stages of gum disease: gingivitis and periodontitis. Regular dental check ups along with brushing at least twice a day and flossing daily play an important role in preventing gum disease.

4. Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is also known as cavities, is the process that results in a cavity (dental caries). It is the second most prevalent disease in the U.S. after common cold. The combination of bacteria and food causes tooth decay. It occurs when plague, the sticky substance that forms on teeth, combines with the sugars/starches of the food that you eat. This combination produces acids that attack the teeth for 20 minutes or more after eating. You can prevent tooth decay by brushing twice a day, flossing daily and going to your regular dental check ups.

5. Tooth Erosion

Tooth erosion is caused by acidic foods and drinks ‘dissolving’ away the surface of the tooth. The signs and symptoms can range from sensitivity to more severe problems such as cracking. Tooth erosion is becoming more common, especially due to greater consumption of fizzy drinks.