Decades ago, dental care in Webster and throughout the United States addressed a problem when you had one. Today, dental professionals work to prevent tooth decay and other common dental issues. Preventing dental problems costs significantly less than resolving them, and it protects your overall health.
Common Dental Problems and Tips for Preventing Them
Are you curious about what you can do besides regular checkups to protect your dental health? Understanding common dental problems will help you prevent them.
Tooth Decay
Tooth decay occurs when bacteria release acid into your mouth and attack your tooth’s enamel. Bacteria thrive if you have poor oral hygiene habits and don’t brush your teeth or floss daily. The most effective way to prevent tooth decay is by brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing twice a day.
Regular dental care in Webster will allow your dentist to identify teeth needing attention. If you are diagnosed with tooth decay, it should be treated as soon as possible to avoid long-term complications. Treatment may include fillings, crowns, or extractions.
Bad Breath
Bad breath is an embarrassing problem. Several factors can impact the odor in your mouth, from crooked teeth to lingering food particles. Practicing good oral hygiene is the most common way to prevent bad breath.
Brushing your teeth removes plaque buildup. Brushing your tongue removes bacteria that contribute to unpleasant odors. When a dry mouth causes bad breath, the best way to address it is to chew gum or mints to stimulate saliva. Bad breath can be a sign of different dental or oral health issues, and if it lingers, despite good oral hygiene, a visit to your dentist is warranted.
Gum Disease
Gum disease is an infection of the gums and the supporting structures surrounding teeth due to poor brushing habits. It is usually caused by poor dental habits.
Symptoms of gum disease include:
- Persistent bad breath
- Red, swollen, tender gums
- Bleeding when brushing and flossing
- Receding gums
- Pus between your gums and teeth
- Loose teeth
- Changes in the way you bite
If you experience these symptoms, you must find a Webster, NY, dentist to start treatment. When left untreated, gum disease can cause permanent damage, like tooth loss and other health issues, such as heart disease.[1]
Using fluoride toothpaste will help reduce the amount of plaque and bacteria in your mouth and prevent gum disease. Your teeth and gums also become healthier when you don’t participate in bad habits like smoking.
Tooth Sensitivity
The nerves of your teeth are covered by a layer of tissue called dentin which is then covered by a hard protective enamel. If the dentin becomes exposed, it causes your teeth to be sensitive to hot and cold foods. Sometimes, they are bothered by sweet and acidic foods, too. You can prevent tooth sensitivity with good oral care.
Properly brushing, flossing, and reducing the amount of sugary and acidic foods consumed should help prevent this condition. However, a dentist can determine whether there is an underlying cause for your sensitive teeth.
Stained Teeth
Your teeth may become discolored if you don’t care for them or drink significant amounts of coffee and tea. Smoking can contribute to discoloration as well. Prevent staining by:
- Brushing after every meal
- Rinsing with water
- Using teeth whitening toothpaste
- Getting a professional whitening treatment
Avoiding drinks that stain the teeth and smoking can help fight discoloration.
Bruxism
Bruxism is the professional term for grinding your teeth. Most people do it when they sleep, but it can also happen while you’re awake. It can lead to a chipped tooth or jaw pain and trigger headaches and earaches.
Your dentist can make you a custom mouthguard to wear at night. This appliance protects your teeth from the negative effects of teeth grinding.
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth is a condition that occurs when the salivary glands don’t produce enough saliva. Some medications, radiation therapy, or dehydration can cause it. Patients with dry mouth experience a sticky sensation in their mouth and have trouble swallowing and speaking.
You can prevent dry mouth by drinking plenty of water. However, if medication is the source of your problem, you can ask your doctor to change your prescription. Otherwise, it’s best to treat dry mouth by chewing sugar-free gum or candy and limiting caffeine and alcohol.
Protect Your Dental Health With Dental Care in Webster
Although these dental problems are common, many of them are preventable. Avoid them by practicing good oral hygiene and scheduling routine dental checkups with Empire Dental Care. We provide solutions and treatments that preserve your oral health. Call us today at 585-671-1650 to schedule your appointment!
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