Nobody wants to deal with dental problems, but even those who practice strict oral hygiene by brushing, flossing, and scheduling frequent check-ups may get tooth issues, which is not enjoyable. While many dental issues can be resolved at home, some may turn out to be warning signs of a more serious issue, necessitating a trip to the dentist. How do you determine when to get assistance versus whether you can treat your suffering smile yourself? Here is a look at the 5 most common dental problems, their root causes, and the most effective solutions.
5 Common Dental Problems and their Solutions
1. Bad Breath
Even while eating too much garlic or eating a salad with too many onions is frequently to blame, having bad breath frequently can be both embarrassing and a sign that more severe problems are developing. Bad breath, also referred to as halitosis in medicine can arise for a variety of causes outside what you had for lunch. While gargling with water or mouthwash, putting a mint in your mouth, or chewing sugar-free gum are all short-term remedies for bad breath, figuring out the underlying cause is crucial to find a long-term treatment and preventing other, more serious problems.
2. Plaque
Plaque is a sticky coating on your teeth when oral bacteria, sugar, and starch from meals and beverages mix together. While we can’t stop plaque from developing, we can stop what might follow. If plaque is not removed, it creates damaging acids that harden into tartar, eroding tooth enamel, resulting in cavities, and even leading to gum disease. Brushing your teeth is the best way to stop plaque from growing into more dental problems.
3. Discolored Teeth
Teeth can become discolored for a variety of causes, including aging, medications, heredity, smoking, and coffee consumption. You obviously can’t stop getting older or choose your parents, but you may try to limit or avoid foods and beverages that have the tendency to stain your teeth, give up smoking, and spend money on over-the-counter whitening solutions.
It’s time to consult your dentist to determine whether the stains are indeed indicators of an underlying problem that needs to be treated if these efforts, together with a proper oral hygiene routine, do not seem to be restoring your teeth to their pearly white days of glory.
4. Bleeding Gums
Although cleaning your teeth is essential for a healthy smile, you might occasionally go beyond and hurt your gums. It seems sensible that one strategy to address this tooth issue is to simply put a bit less muscle into your dental routine since overly forceful flossing can also be a contributing factor. Make careful to (gently!) brush the gum line as well because plaque accumulation there can lead to bleeding gums by inflaming and producing pain. By consuming foods like sweet potatoes, carrots, spinach, and kale, you can also aim to increase your consumption of vitamins C to fight infections and K to boost blood clotting ability. However, like other dental issues, bleeding gums can also be a sign of a more serious disease, so if bleeding persists, see a dentist to identify the cause and come up with a treatment plan.
5. Tooth Sensitivity
You know that teeth sensitivity is not a good time if you’ve seen yourself avoiding hot or cold foods that are hot or cold or if your smile has abruptly changed into a frown after being assaulted with a blast of cold air. Teeth can become sensitive for a variety of reasons, including the excessive brushing we described above or overindulging in acidic meals and beverages. Along with aggressive whitening products, teeth grinding or clenching can also be a problem. However, if this dental issue persists or recurs frequently, it’s possible that the teeth’s roots themselves are to blame. The nerves beneath a broken tooth or filling may be exposed, which requires immediate repair. Tooth sensitivity due to gum problems is another issue that requires prompt attention. Consider brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush, wearing a night-time bite guard, stopping your teeth-whitening efforts, and choosing less acidic snacks like cheese or yogurt. It’s time to consult your dentist if these don’t seem to work. Knowing the cause of your tooth sensitivity will make it easier for you to cure and get rid of it.
Conclusion
Even though it’s usual to experience periodic dental problems, adopting precautions can help to reduce your risk. Maintain proper oral hygiene, eat healthily, avoid drinking and sugary meals and beverages, and quit smoking. Use your toothbrush to gently wash your teeth and tongue after meals, and keep it clean. To maintain healthy teeth and to spot and treat any underlying issues or disorders, floss every day and visit your dentist on a regular basis. Keep your dental appliances clean as well, if you have any. If dental problems remain, make sure to contact your dentist.