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Dentists

Common Dental Issues and How Dentists Help

Dentists are vital in ensuring oral health and preventing dental problems that can affect overall well-being

Dentists are vital in ensuring oral health and preventing dental problems that can affect overall well-being. They manage a spectrum of issues, from everyday concerns like cavities to serious conditions such as oral cancer. By learning about these common dental problems and the treatments available, you can better maintain a healthy smile.

Tooth Decay

Tooth decay, also known as cavities, is one of the most prevalent dental issues. It occurs when the enamel, the tooth’s outer layer, is eroded by acids produced by bacteria in the mouth. These acids form when sugars in foods and drinks are broken down. Symptoms of tooth decay to watch out for include tooth sensitivity, visible holes, and pain when biting or chewing. Dentists typically treat cavities with fillings, where the decayed part of the tooth is removed and filled with materials like composite resin or amalgam. If you want to address any oral issues like tooth decay, speaking to a member of the team at bafdentistry.com will ensure you get the right solution.

Gum Disease

A buildup of plaque and tartar can lead to periodontal disease, where the gums become inflamed and infected. Symptoms include red, swollen, and bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, receding gums, and loose teeth. Dentists treat gum disease through scaling and root planing. This is a deep cleaning procedure that effectively removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. Antibiotics may also be used to treat the infection, and in severe cases, surgical procedures like flap surgery or bone grafts might be necessary.

Orthodontic Problems

Misaligned teeth, also known as malocclusion, can result from genetic factors, early loss of baby teeth, thumb-sucking habits, or injury. Symptoms include crooked or crowded teeth, difficulty biting or chewing, and jaw pain. Dentists and orthodontists treat misalignment with braces, which can be traditional metal braces or clear aligners like Invisalign. Retainers may be used to maintain alignment after braces, and in severe cases, orthognathic surgery may be required to correct jaw alignment.

Infection

A tooth infection (an abscess) happens when bacteria enter the tooth through cavities, cracks, or gum disease, leading to the formation of pus. Symptoms include severe toothache, a bad taste in the mouth, fever, swelling, and swollen lymph nodes. Seeking treatment typically involves a root canal. This type of treatment removes the infected pulp and seals the tooth. If the tooth cannot be saved, it may need to be extracted, and antibiotics are used to clear the infection.

Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is a lesser spoken about disease and can develop in any part of the mouth. It can appear in the lips, tongue, cheeks, and throat. There are a number of risks that can contribute to developing this form of cancer, including excessive alcohol consumption, tobacco use, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, and prolonged sun exposure to the lips. Symptoms of oral cancer include persistent sores, lumps, or white patches in the mouth, difficulty swallowing, and unexplained bleeding. Treatment includes surgery to remove the cancerous growth, radiation therapy to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors, and chemotherapy to target and kill cancer cells.

Tooth Loss

Losing a tooth can happen due to injury, severe decay, or advanced gum disease. Missing teeth can affect chewing, speech, and appearance. Dentists offer several solutions for tooth loss, including dental implants, which are artificial tooth roots providing a permanent base for replacement teeth. Bridges, which are false teeth anchored to adjacent natural teeth, and dentures, which are removable appliances that replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues, are other common treatments.

Dentists are essential in diagnosing, treating, and preventing a wide range of oral health issues. Regular dental visits and good oral hygiene practices are vital for maintaining a healthy mouth and addressing problems early on. By understanding the common issues dentists help with, you can take the proper steps to ensure your oral health and overall well-being.