Just as one can catch a cold or a fever, our teeth and gums are also susceptible to having issues.
Ranging from minor issues to significant ones, oral health matters if left unattended will impair one’s mental health and ability to eat and speak leading to more serious problems susceptible to spreading to other parts of the body.
Dental Problems that Shouldn’t be Ignored
With dental problems constituting an important aspect of overall wellness, having awareness of what issues could arise comes in helpful in the decision-making process after an incident.
1. Tooth Decay
With everything we consume every day, bacteria build up in our mouths producing acids that will gradually eat away at the enamel of the teeth.
If left untreated the tooth decay present will lead to cavities which will at its minimum cause pain and at its worst engender tooth loss. A dentist in Brooklyn can help prevent and treat tooth decay by cleaning teeth, filling cavities with tooth-colored composite resin, and so on.
2. Gum disease
Hard to notice, gum disease has often been coined as a “silent threat”, periodically seeing a dentist enables it to be treated early and easily.
Referred to a periodontist in its latest stage, gum disease can cause bone and tooth loss if ignored. Treatment will typically involve removing plaque and tartar from the teeth and smoothing the root surfaces, preventing bacteria from sticking.
Depending on the stage of gum disease, surgery may be necessary in more advanced cases.
3. Bruxism
The cause behind this grinding or teeth-clenching habit isn’t known but stress and anxiety are thought to be heavily correlated with the condition, with misaligned bite and missing or crooked teeth contributing.
Wearing out or chipping your teeth as well as causing headaches and jaw pain, this problem can be addressed in a number of ways from orthodontic treatment to relaxation techniques.
4. Bad Breath
Professionally referred to as halitosis, this problem can be caused by various factors including but not limited to, poor oral hygiene, dry mouth, certain food, tobacco use as well as certain medical conditions.
Staying hydrated as well as seeking out the advice of a professional will help you rule out underlying medical conditions.
5. Tooth Sensitivity
With tooth erosion, worn fillings, or worn tooth enamel heavily contributing to the development of sensitive teeth, this type of discomfort can make consuming hot or cold things a nightmare.
The underlying reason behind the sensitivity will dictate the treatment with possible options including fluoride treatment, specific toothpaste, and more.
Tips for maintaining an excellent oral hygene
Practicing good oral hygiene is essential for keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Here are some tips you can follow to maintain good oral hygiene:
-Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
-Floss at least once a day.
-Clean your tongue every day with a tongue scraper or brush.
-Use an antiseptic mouthwash daily to help reduce bacteria in the mouth.
-Avoid snacks and drinks that contain sugar, as excessive sugar can lead to cavities.
-Drink lots of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and clean your mouth.
-Rinse your mouth after eating acidic foods or citrus fruits like oranges and lemons, as these can wear away at enamel if left on the teeth for too long.
Follow these steps regularly and you’ll be sure to keep your smile shining bright!
Act on it, Don’t let it Slip by Unnoticed
Beyond regular checkups with a dentist in Brooklyn, practicing good oral hygiene as well as avoiding risk factors such as smoking or a diet high in sugar among other habits will help mitigate the usual dental problems most encounter.
