Have you ever had a toothache so bad that it felt like a jackhammer was in your head. You are not alone. Tooth problems are as common in April as the rain. Here are some of the common dental problems and what you can do to prevent them.
**Cavities – The Sneaky Saboteurs**
Ah, cavities. Cavities are those tiny, invisible terrors that can sneak up on you without warning. These tiny, almost indiscernible creatures will eventually drill into your teeth like gold miners. Plaque, the sticky film of bacteria that adheres to teeth, produces acids which erode enamel. It’s similar to termites eating wood.
Brush twice daily using fluoride toothpaste, and floss as if it were going out of fashion to avoid these invaders. Sugary snacks and drinks are the best friend of cavities.
*Gum Disease: the Silent Assassin**
The ninja of gum disease sneaks up on you without warning. The first stage is gingivitis. This occurs when plaque builds up on the gums, causing them to become reddened and swollen. It can lead to periodontitis if ignored. This can cause serious damage to the bone supporting your teeth.
Regular brushing and flossing is essential to ward off gum disease. Don’t forget to get regular dental checks! Professional cleanings can remove tartar, which brushing alone cannot.
Bad Breath: the unwanted guest
Have you ever been close to someone whose breath is so strong it could knock an elephant over? Bad breath, or halitosis, is more than just a social issue. It can be a sign that there are underlying dental problems like cavities or gum disease.
It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene. Brush, floss, and rinse your mouth with mouthwash. Don’t forget about cleaning your tongue. If you have persistent bad breath, it may be due to a medical condition or diet. Consult your dentist if the problem persists, despite regular oral hygiene.
Ice Cream is the enemy of those with sensitive teeth.
Tooth sensitivity is the fastest way to ruin an ice-cream cone. Imagine biting down on something cold and feeling a sharp pain in your mouth. When enamel wears away or the gums recede exposing dentin, tooth sensitivity occurs.
This problem can be alleviated by switching to toothpaste that is designed for sensitive teeth. Acidic drinks and foods can further erode enamel.
*Teeth Grinders: A Nighttime Nuisance**
You may have headaches or jaw pain when you awaken. This condition is known as bruxism. This nocturnal gnashing is often triggered by stress.
Your dentist can provide you with a custom-fitted guard to protect your pearly whites as you sleep. Relaxation techniques can also reduce stress.
*Crooked teeth: the misaligned menace**
It’s not just about the aesthetics. Crooked teeth can also make it harder to clean and increase your risk of gum disease and cavities. Straightening teeth is often done with braces or clear aligners.
If you are considering correcting misaligned or crooked teeth, talk to an orthodontist. They will guide you with options that suit your needs.
Wisdom tooth woes
Wisdom teeth can be like the uninvited relatives that show up without warning. Sometimes they are a good fit, but other times they cause problems by becoming crooked and affecting other teeth.
It may be necessary to remove wisdom teeth if they cause pain or crowding. Before making any decision, your dentist will recommend that you take x-rays in order to monitor the growth of wisdom teeth.
Remember Jane, the accountant? She shared her story of how she ignored her wisdom teeth pain until it became so severe that she could no longer eat her favorite steak!
Dental problems can be intimidating (oops!) But tackling dental problems head-on can make all the difference. Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits can keep your teeth healthy.