In the many dental problems, the biggest culprit is plaque. Plaque is a colorless substance that coats the teeth and erodes enamel. Plaque is a breeding ground for bacteria and can lead to many other dental problems.
If plaque is not removed, it can lead to infection, cavities and tooth loss. Many foods that are rich in sugar, along with fizzy drinks, candy and carbohydrates, contribute to plaque. Other dental problems include periodontitis. This is an infection of the gums caused by the bacteria in plaque. If left untreated, the infection will rot the tissue in the gums and destroy the bones around the teeth.
Gingivitis is the name for early gum disease. Symptoms of gingivitis include bad breath and bleeding gums when they are brushed. The gums may also be red and swollen, and if gingivitis is left untreated, the gums will recede from the teeth. Advanced gum disease can lead to tooth loss, and in most cases, it is easily preventable.
Cavities are also high up on the list of dental problems. These are small holes formed in the teeth caused by prolonged tooth decay. The plaque in the mouth causes acid to eat through the tooth’s enamel. Cavities must usually be filled by the dentist, or they may lead to more serious dental problems.
Many people suffer from an abscessed tooth. This happens when the gum becomes infected and a small pocket filled with pus forms around the tooth. An abscessed tooth can lead to other dental problems, such as bone damage and tissue decay. Root canal work may be required, and teeth may need to be capped or even extracted.
Sensitive teeth are a problem for many people. Sensitive teeth sting when exposed to hot or very cold foods or liquids. Sensitive teeth may be caused by cavities or an abscessed tooth. There may also be tiny cracks in the tooth that leave the inside of the tooth exposed. There are certain toothpastes that are available to help prevent the pain associated with sensitive teeth.
Impacted teeth are a very common dental problem. Usually, an impacted tooth has only partially appeared though the gum, but it may also not appear at all through the gum. This usually happens to the wisdom teeth. Impacted teeth can cause pain and crowding of the other teeth. Extractions are usually the best way to deal with impacted teeth.
Dental problems not caused by infection include tooth grinding. Although this is sometimes seen as harmless, it can lead to other dental problems. Prolonged grinding can bring about fractures and cracks in the teeth. It can also cause wear and tear to the jaw and loosen teeth. A special device is available to be worn at night if you suffer from tooth grinding.