10 Common Dental Problems and How to Prevent Them

Your oral health is incredibly important and taking good care of your teeth and gums can help prevent a variety of dental problems. Unfortunately, many people suffer from dental issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, bad breath and more. The good news is that many of these problems can be prevented with proper oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist.

Let’s look at 10 common dental problems and offer tips on how to prevent them. By following these tips, you can keep your teeth and gums healthy which can mean avoidance of costly dental procedures down the road.

Tooth Decay

Tooth decay, also known as cavities, is one of the most common dental problems. It occurs when bacteria in the mouth produce acid that erodes the tooth enamel. This can lead to pain, sensitivity and even tooth loss.

To prevent tooth decay, it is important to practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily and using mouthwash at a different time to brushing. You should also avoid sugary and acidic foods and drinks as these can contribute to tooth decay.

Gum Disease

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums that can lead to tooth loss. It occurs when plaque and tartar build up on the teeth and irritate the gums, causing them to become red, swollen, and bleed.

To prevent gum disease, it is important to practice good oral hygiene as stated above. You should also get regular dental check-ups, as your dentist can detect and treat gum disease early on and also have regular appointments with a hygienist to keep your teeth clean.

Bad Breath

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is a common problem that can be embarrassing and unpleasant. It is usually caused by bacteria in the mouth, but can also be a sign of an underlying health problem.

To prevent bad breath, it is important to practice good oral hygiene. This includes your daily oral hygiene practices as stated above, drinking plenty of water, as this can help flush out bacteria in the mouth, and avoid foods that can cause bad breath, such as garlic and onions.

Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is a common problem that can cause pain or discomfort when eating or drinking hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks. It occurs when the tooth enamel is worn down, exposing the sensitive dentine underneath.

To prevent tooth sensitivity, it is important to practice good oral hygiene. This includes using a soft-bristled toothbrush or an electric toothbrush with a pressure sensor and avoiding hard brushing, which can wear down the enamel. You should also avoid acidic foods and drinks, which can contribute to tooth sensitivity.

Toothaches

Toothaches are a common problem that can cause pain, swelling and discomfort. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including tooth decay, gum disease or an injury to the tooth.
To prevent toothache, it is important to practice good oral hygiene. You should also avoid hard or sticky foods, which can cause tooth damage.

Dry Mouth

Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is a condition in which there is not enough saliva in the mouth. This can lead to discomfort, difficulty swallowing, and an increased risk of dental problems.
To prevent dry mouth, it is important to drink plenty of water and avoid tobacco and alcohol, which can dry out the mouth. You can also try using a humidifier in your home to keep the air moist.

Mouth Sores

Mouth sores, also known as canker sores or aphthous ulcers , are painful lesions that can develop on the inside of the mouth. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, a weakened immune system, or certain foods.

To prevent mouth sores, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene. You should also avoid spicy or acidic foods and drinks, which can irritate the mouth.

Jaw Disorders

Jaw disorders, such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, can cause pain and discomfort in the jaw, face, and neck. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including grinding your teeth, chewing on hard objects or poor posture.

To prevent jaw disorders, it is important to avoid habits that can cause jaw pain, such as chewing on hard objects or clenching your teeth. You should also practice good posture and avoid cradling the phone between your shoulder and ear.

Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a common problem that can cause tooth damage, headaches, and jaw pain. It often occurs during sleep, but can also occur during the day.

To prevent teeth grinding, it is important to manage stress and anxiety, which can contribute to bruxism. You can also wear a mouthguard at night, which can protect your teeth from grinding.

Regular Dental check-ups are the answer!

There are many common dental problems that can be prevented with proper oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist. By taking these steps you can keep your teeth and gums healthy and avoid dental procedures.

Additionally, by avoiding habits that can cause dental problems, such as chewing on hard objects or clenching your teeth, you can maintain good oral health and prevent dental pain and discomfort. Remember, a healthy smile starts with good oral hygiene!

If you have symptoms, or need help with any of the above items, contact the team at Fulham Road Dental to make an appointment and visit our dental practice for a consultation with a dentist.