What are the Most Common Dental Diseases?

Dental problems can range from minor and straightforward to severe ones, which could have an unpleasant effect on your overall health and well-being. A toothache can leave you incapable of doing anything. Other dental problems can affect yourability to eat and enjoy food or negatively impact your interactions with others. While routine dental checkups are the best way to avoid dental diseases, knowing the common conditions that dentists most often treat will help you notice a developing problem early on and get it treated before it worsens.

• Tooth Decay: Tooth decay is one of the common medical conditions in the U.S. Cavities develop when plaque forms on the surface of the teeth and combine with food particles trapped between the teeth to create acids which eat away the tooth enamel.The loss of enamel may cause the nerves in the teeth to be exposed, resulting in the intense pain of a toothache. It is a myth that children are most prone to tooth decay. It can happen at any age. Regular brushing and flossing,and cutting down on sugary snacks and drinks will help to prevent cavities.

• Bad Breath: 85% of people with halitosis or bad breath have dental problems to blame for the condition. Trying to cover up bad breath with mouthwash, breath fresheners, etc., only hides the problem. It will remain suppressed and continue to get worse if not treated. One can get bad breath due to several causes, including cavities, gum disease, bacterial infections, and oral cancer. The sooner the cause is identified by a dentist, the more rapid the cure.

Also Read: Importance of Orthodontic Treatments

• Sensitive Teeth: There are various causes for this problem to occur, but the most common is that the outer layer of enamel on the teeth has worn away. This leaves the underlying layer, called dentin, exposed. The dent in is connected to the nerves, and whenit comes into contact with hot or cold food or drinks, the sensation of heat or cold travel directly to the nerves, resulting in intense pain. Toothpaste for sensitive teeth can offer some amount of relief, but only dental treatment will provide a permanent cure.

• Gum Disease: Gum disease can come in various forms, and while some may cause pain and bleeding gums, others can result in tooth loss, infections,and a cascading effect on your overall health. Good oral hygiene will assist in preventing the onset of gum disease, but at the first sign of any problems, a dentist should be consulted.

• Mouth Sores: Mouth sores are a prevalent problem and are generally treatable by applying over-the-counter (OTC) medications and ointments. However, they could also be the sign of a viral infection that may be contagious. If the OTC medicines do not improve the problem in a few days, consult your dentist without delay to prevent the condition from becoming a serious one.

• Oral Cancer: According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, one person dies every hour from oral cancer. The most common causes of this disease are tobacco use or alcohol consumption. If the cancer is detected early, it is often curable. This is one of the many potential problems that your dentist will look for during your checkups.

Dental disease can strike anyone at any time. The results can be painful, unsightly, or socially embarrassing. Besides the direct causes, dental problems can be a sign of other health issues. Regular dental checkups, along with a visit if there are any signs of a problem developing, are the best way to avoid not just the pain and discomfort but also to catch any health problem early so that a quick and effective sure may be provided. When in doubt, contact your dentist.

Call 408-725-1536 or email us at info@hillsdentalgroup.com to get a consultation if you need help.