For many people, going to the dentist is a dreaded visit. The thought of having your teeth pulled, root canals, or even having a full set of braces strapped around your face can be scary for anyone. However, dental problems need to be addressed as quickly as possible so they don't worsen and become even more problematic. For kids, dental problems can also be very serious — untreated issues like cavities or gum disease can lead to long-term health issues if left undiagnosed and untreated. Luckily, most dental problems can be resolved with a few easy treatments at home. There are many different causes of dental problems — and even the same cause can present in a variety of ways. However, there is always a solution if you know what to look for and understand your options. Keep reading to learn more about common dental problems and their treatments.
Toothaches
When teeth are damaged, the nerve endings in the dentin and enamel get exposed and can sometimes become irritated. This can lead to a toothache that can be extremely painful. There are a few ways to treat a toothache caused by an exposed nerve. One option is to rinse the area with warm salt water and apply pressure to the nerve with gauze or cotton swab to relieve the pain. If the pain continues for longer than 24 hours, seek out a dentist to have the nerve exposed and irritated root capped (also called a root canal). You’ll receive a prescription for antibiotics to take home and keep with you for the next 2-3 days.
Tooth Decay
Tooth decay or cavities are caused by bacteria in the mouth that eat the sugars found in food and produce acid as a waste product. The acid begins to eat away at the enamel of the tooth and eventually reaches the nerve. The result is a tooth with a hole in it that exposes the nerve. Once the nerve is exposed, you can experience a variety of symptoms, including a toothache, sensitive teeth, and a change in taste. If left untreated, tooth decay can cause teeth to become discolored, sensitive, and weak. If left untreated, the teeth may need to be pulled out.Fortunately, the treatment for tooth decay is relatively simple. You should brush and floss your teeth regularly and see a dentist every 6-12 months for a cleaning and checkup.
Gum Disease
Gum disease is the most common cause of tooth loss in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Gum disease is also called periodontal disease. It is a bacterial infection in the gums that causes inflammation and can spread to other parts of the body. When not treated, gum disease can lead to teeth falling out, teeth becoming loose, teeth shifting in position, and a change in the way your smile looks.Fortunately, gum disease can be treated. If you have signs and symptoms of gum disease, you should see a dentist as soon as possible. Your dentist will remove any tartar buildup from your teeth and will clean your gums to remove any bacteria. You may also need to change your oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing more frequently.
Bleeding Gums
Bleeding gums are often caused by a bacterial infection. This can happen when your gums are not healthy and are losing their ability to fight bacteria. This can occur when you have not been regularly brushing and flossing your teeth. If left untreated, gum disease can worsen and cause the teeth to loosen or fall out.
Jaw Pain
Jaw pain can be caused by several issues. One common cause is an abscessed tooth. An abscessed tooth can cause severe pain and swelling that is difficult to treat. The treatment for a swollen tooth is to remove the tooth and then clean out and treat the infection.If you have signs and symptoms of a broken or cracked tooth, see a dentist as soon as possible. Broken or cracked teeth can cause serious dental issues and will need to be treated as soon as possible.
Damaged Teeth and Bumps on the Cheeks
Damaged teeth can become very fragile and weak and can lead to tooth loss. Damage can occur from a fall, sports injury, or even just normal daily wear and tear from chewing and grinding against each other. If a tooth is damaged, it should be treated as soon as possible. If the damage is too severe to repair, it could eventually cause tooth loss. If the damage is not severe, it could be fixed with a dental bridge or dental veneers.
Conclusion
Dental problems are a common issue for children and adults alike. Fortunately, there are treatments for most dental problems and the majority of them are relatively simple. The sooner you address dental issues, the easier they are to treat. It is recommended that you see a dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups to stay on top of your dental health.