Common Dental Problems

Many people suffer from dental issues that are often easily remedied if addressed quickly. At Comfort Dental Care & Orthodontics, we treat many of the common dental problems which can be caused by heredity, unfavorable environmental factors, and, of course, bad habits.

Tooth Decay

The most preventable dental problem is tooth decay. Cavities form from not caring for teeth with proper brushing and flossing, especially after consuming high-sugar foods and drinks. These foods leave deposits on your teeth which then bond with bacteria that is naturally in your mouth and slowly damage the enamel on your teeth. The result is tooth decay, which if caught early, can be treated with fillings. Left untreated, these teeth may have to be pulled and replaced with a crown or bridge.

Sensitive Teeth

If you have sensitive teeth, your teeth react to changes in the temperature of foods. When this happens, the enamel is slowly worn down, and gums may recede. Additionally, you may develop microscopic cracks in your teeth that expose the interior of the teeth which then irritates the nerve endings. For some people with very sensitive teeth, cold air may affect them as well.

Gum Disease

Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is inflammation of the gums, most often the result of poor oral hygiene, specifically not flossing. In the initial stages of gum disease, gingivitis occurs, and the gums bleed easily and become swollen. When gum disease gets worse and goes untreated, teeth may begin to loosen, fall out or be pulled (extracted) by a dentist. Gum disease is very preventable simply by maintaining good oral hygiene including brushing at least twice a day and flossing every day.

Bad Breath

When good oral care is lacking, and food particles build up in teeth, the result is often bad breath. Bad breath is also a sign of gum disease and other dental problems. To prevent this from occurring, simply maintain a routine of brushing and flossing to keep food and bacteria from building up.

Mouth Sores

Mouth sores are small sores inside the mouth that can be very painful. They are usually white or gray in color and have a red border that signals irritation. Most mouth sores last up to two weeks and can be treated using antimicrobial mouthwashes and topical medications.

Orthodontic Issues

There are several orthodontic issues that can be caught early and treated before they become bigger problems. From an incorrect bite to a crooked smile to misaligned jaws as a result of an injury or heredity, most orthodontic issues are easily treated to help patients regain their self-confidence and a beautiful smile.