Did you know that some common dental issues are very preventable? Regular and routine visits to a dentist can help detect problems before they can compromise your oral health and overall well-being. Experts report that the evolution of processed foods set the stage for many common dental disorders that had previously gone unnoticed. Learn a few of the most common tooth problems and why these dental disorders exist.
Common Dental Disorders
Dental experts assert that nearly 90% of Americans have misaligned teeth. The problems with this extend beyond cosmetics, as improper spacing can impact the individual’s bite and how effective their brushing and flossing will be. Approximately 75% of patients simply do not have enough room in their mouth and jaw for teeth to develop and erupt properly, causing further complications and common dental problems.
Some common dental disorders today include:
- Tooth Decay
Tooth decay or cavities occur when there is a buildup of plaque on or between the teeth. Experts report that around nine out of every ten adults in this country have or has experienced some degree of tooth decay.
- Gum Disease
Gingivitis is a dental condition that occurs when there is a buildup of plaque, irritating and infecting the gums. The symptoms are swollen, sore gums, and sometimes bleeding when you brush or floss. This is a very common condition that impacts around 40% of Americans over the age of 30.
- Enamel Erosion
Certain foods are high in acids that can erode the enamel of your teeth. Some examples include sugar and citrus. The usual treatment protocol for enamel erosion includes bonding, crowns, or veneers. See your dental provider to find out more.
- Cracks or Chips
Eating hard foods, sports related injuries, teeth grinding, or trauma can all cause a tooth to chip or crack. This requires the expertise of a professional, so see a dentist right away. Treatment may include bonding the tooth to improve its stability, or it may involve a crown, extraction, or root canal, based on your dentist’s assessment.
- Tooth Sensitivity
If you experience pain when you drink or eat something that is either hot or cold, you likely have tooth sensitivity. This could mean that the enamel on your teeth is compromised, damaged, or eroded, leaving the nerves of your teeth exposed and vulnerable.
- Impacted Teeth
If there is not enough room in your mouth and gums for a tooth to erupt, or break through, it may result in it becoming impacted. This tooth can shift and move, causing interference with other teeth and pain. It may be difficult to open and close your mouth as usual, and it often affects your bite. Your dentist will use an x-ray to identify if you have impacted teeth and then recommend treatment that may involve extraction.
Dental Health Tips
Talk to your dentist about good oral hygiene practices. Most providers make the following recommendations to their dental patients:
- Brush twice a day, and ideally, after snacks and meals
- Floss at least once daily
- Eat sugary snacks in moderation
- Avoid or quit smoking
- Drink plenty of water
- Protect your teeth during contact sports
- See your dentist at least once a year, but more often as needed
Schedule your exam with the dental providers at Old Mt Pleasant Dentistry, in Mt Pleasant, SC. Regular visits can help prevent and detect dental disorders before they compromise your oral health and wellbeing. Call or visit today.
