The teeth and gums are one of the most important parts of the human body. They not only assist in our ability to eat and speak but also play a role in our overall health and well-being. If you think your teeth are healthy, think again. In fact, most people experience some type of dental issue during their lifetime. In fact, statistics show that 80% of Americans will experience some type of oral issue within their lifetime. However, most of these issues can be prevented with the right preventative dental care and routine upkeep. If you’re someone who has been experiencing issues with their teeth or gums, we want you to know that you’re not alone! There are many common dental problems that millions of people are dealing with every single day.
Tooth Decay and Tooth Loss
Tooth decay and tooth loss are two of the most common dental issues that millions of people are dealing with.Tooth decay occurs when bacteria builds up on the surface of the teeth and enters the enamel. Once the enamel is breached, bacteria can enter the dentin, which is a layer of the tooth that is sensitive to pain and can result in a tooth being extracted. Tooth loss is also a very common issue, especially in adults. Many adults lose their teeth due to gum disease, periodontal disease, or even teeth falling out due to an untreated cavity. Luckily, there are many ways to help prevent tooth decay and keep your teeth healthy.
Gum Disease
Gum disease is a bacterial infection that attacks the gums and causes them to become inflamed. It can occur in both adults and children, but it’s most common in adults. The gums become red and tender, and this is a sign that bacteria are in the process of causing gum disease. There are two forms of gum disease: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease and can usually be reversed with treatment. Periodontitis, on the other hand, is a more serious form of gum disease that can lead to tooth loss if untreated. There are many causes of gum disease, but the most common one is poor dental hygiene. This can be prevented with proper brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups.
Cavities and Broken Teeth
Cavities are caused when bacteria builds up and attacks the teeth’s enamel, causing it to break and create a hole. This can happen in any teeth, but it is more common in the teeth that are used the most, such as the molars and premolars. Broken teeth are a result of an untreated cavity, so they can also be prevented with proper dental care. There are many ways to avoid cavities and broken teeth, but one of the easiest ways to do so is to see your dentist at least twice a year for cleanings and checkups.
Gum Recession
Gum recession is a condition where the gum tissue grows and recedes away from the teeth. This can be caused by many factors, such as teeth grinding, a loss of teeth, periodontal disease, or trauma to the area. Gum recession can be very sensitive, especially if the recession is severe. This is because it can make it difficult for food and bacteria to be removed from the teeth. Gum recession can usually be treated with gum surgery, but this is a serious dental issue that needs to be treated as soon as possible. People who suffer from gum recession should see their dentist as soon as possible, as bacteria can quickly build up in the area and cause the gum recession to worsen.
Dental Trauma
Dental trauma can occur in any age group, but it is most common in children. Dental trauma can be caused by sporting activities, car accidents, falls, or abuse. There are many different types of dental trauma, with most people experiencing some form of crown fracture. A crown fracture occurs when the enamel of a tooth is broken and extends into the dentin. The worst type of dental trauma is a root fracture, where the root itself is broken. This can be very painful and can cause the tooth to become discolored.
Problems With Worn-Down Teeth and Jawbone Damage
Jawbone damage and worn-down teeth are often caused by teeth grinding, which is when teeth come together and cause the enamel of the teeth to break down. Teeth grinding occurs during sleep, so many people don’t realize that they are doing it. It can be caused by stress, anxiety, or a sleep disorder. To avoid teeth grinding and damage to the teeth and jaw, it’s recommended to use a mouthguard during sports or activities where teeth grinding might occur, such as in contact sports. In cases of teeth grinding, the teeth can also be replaced with dental implants, as they are stronger than natural teeth and can last much longer.
Conclusion
To conclude, we hope that we have given you a clear idea of the common dental issues that are experienced by millions of people around the world. There are many ways to prevent these issues, and if you are currently experiencing any type of issue, it is important to see your dentist as soon as possible to avoid long-term consequences.