Common Dental Problems
Most dental problems can be avoided by following good dental hygiene practices and regular visits to the dentist for a professional cleaning and exam. It’s important to know what the most common dental issues are so you and your dentist can work together to prevent them.
- Bad breath: It’s something that nobody wants to talk about, but it can be a sign that there is something wrong with your oral health. The most obvious reason is that food particles remain in the teeth if they are not brushed and flossed properly. Dry mouth can also cause bad breath as well as infections in the mouth, gum disease or mouth sores. That’s why it’s important to keep up with your regular dental checkups — so the dentist can watch for signs of these more serious issues.
- Tooth pain: A dull ache or sharp pain can be caused by a number of factors such as tooth decay, an abscessed or fractured tooth, a damaged filling, or infected gums. If the pain lasts longer than 2 days and is accompanied by a fever or earache, you should see a dentist as soon as possible.
- Tooth decay: Common in children and adults, tooth decay occurs when a sticky substance known as plaque combines with sugars and starches from the food you eat to produce acid that harms the tooth enamel. Keep plaque from forming by brushing twice a day and flossing at least once a day. Not only will this keep your teeth healthy, it will keep them looking good, too.
- Gum disease: Just as plaque can cause cavities, it can also lead to gum disease. When plaque is left untreated, it forms into tartar, which can only be removed through professional dental cleaning. Tartar can irritate the gums, causing them to become inflamed and infected.
If you have any questions or concerns about your dental health in Spotswood, NJ, please call our office to schedule an appointment today.