Can you imagine life without teeth? Probably not. You need your teeth to talk, chew, bite, or grind. Some TLC to your teeth is essential. Otherwise, you will be plagued by one or more of the following dental care problems:
1. Gum disease
Gum disease is the leading dental health problem. It results from a bacterial infection following the accumulation of plaque on the teeth. Ligaments and gum tissues are eaten away by the bacteria, leading to gum disease and loose teeth.
Contrary to your opinion, it can be warded off early because five steps lead to a pronounced/diagnosed gum disease. The early phase is associated with gingivitis or mild gum disease, but the disease is easily reversible at this stage. During the late stages, the infection worsens, limiting reversibility. The early stages are characterized by swollen and bleeding gums. Visit your dentist then to treat the condition.
2. Tooth decay
Known better as cavities or dental caries. Do you have plaque on your teeth? If so, you should visit your dental clinic fast for a thorough clean-up and plaque removal. This is because you will develop cavities if you wait any longer. Plaque, bacteria and foods hidden in your teeth enhance acid formation. The acid eats into the enamel, forming holes.
This lifestyle condition can be easily reversed by healthy eating, brushing or flossing teeth well, and avoiding excess sugar. If it is terrible or you developed cavities, visit your dental care practitioner, who will treat and advise you appropriately.
3. Tooth/Root infection
This results from bacterial infection at the root of your tooth. The infection can result from cavities, deep cracks on a tooth, or fractures. If untreated, you will develop painfully swollen abscesses, as seen on your face.
To avoid this, you should see a doctor immediately when you have a crack in your tooth. When in pain, your dentist will perform a root canal. This will remove all infected tissues and teeth, eventually eliminating the pain. This will be done under a local anesthetic, as it can be terribly painful. Yelp page reviews for dentist care clinics reveal many patients who have gone through successful root canals.
4. Dry mouth
Lack of saliva due to intake of some medications affects dental health. Besides lubrication and cleansing, saliva has antibacterial properties that protect the teeth. This means that a dry mouth increases the susceptibility of your teeth to infections. You should talk to your doctor immediately if you experience a dry mouth.
5. Enamel degradation
Exposure to corrosive materials like sugary snacks and fizzy drinks leads to rounded and coloring on the enamel. Acids in these products destroy your enamel gradually, and you may have to undergo an enamel bonding procedure. However, the best alternative would be avoiding the causative agents.
6. Temporomandibular joint disorder
It is characterized by clenching and grinding teeth, especially when asleep. It is also considered psychological, and it is recommended that you avoid stress, wear mouthguards, and/or undergo corrective mandibular surgery.
7. Oral cancer
You are advised to see a dentist at least once or twice a year to watch out for oral diseases, especially cancer. It is mostly painless, and growths are pale. A professional can be trusted to identify the problem early. Smokers are high on the risk table and should, therefore, seek help and oral/dental checks frequently.
In conclusion, you or anyone else can be afflicted by these dental problems. Brushing regularly, scheduling and attending annual/bi-annual dental checks, and eating healthy meals are essential.
