Article by:
Amelia Grant
Dental issues can vary from minor inconveniences like toothaches to more severe problems like impacted wisdom teeth. Fortunately, these problems may be addressed through various treatments and preventative actions. Dentistry provides several options to preserve excellent oral health, including rinsing with warm water and more complex procedures such as root canals and orthodontic treatments. In this article, we'll look at eight common dental issues and solutions, giving you the knowledge to take proactive measures toward a healthy smile.
Toothache is a common dental issue that can be treated with various methods. It can be relieved by rinsing the mouth with warm water, flossing to remove food caught between teeth, and taking an over-the-counter pain reliever. If you notice swelling or pus around the tooth, or if you have a fever, it could be a sign of an abscess, a more severe problem. See your dentist as soon as possible and consider antibiotics and other treatments.
Stained teeth can be removed using a whitening agent and a special light, or you can bleach them at home with a plastic tray and gel from your dentist or a store. The most straightforward choice, whitening toothpaste and whitening rinses, only removes surface stains.
Cavities are small holes in your teeth caused by plaque, which slowly destroys the hard outer shell, called enamel. Adults can also have problems with tooth decay at the gum line and around the edges of earlier fillings. To prevent cavities, brush your teeth at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, limit snacks, floss daily, rinse with fluoride mouthwash, and keep up with your dental appointments. Ask your dentist if you could benefit from a sealant.
A chipped tooth is the most common type of dental injury, and a dentist may recommend a crown if the chip is significant or bonding with a strong resin material to replace the area that chipped. If the pulp is at risk, a root canal followed by a veneer or crown may be needed.
Impacted teeth are adult teeth that don't come in properly, usually when a tooth is stuck against another tooth, bone, or soft tissue. Most dentists recommend crowns for cracked teeth to prevent the crack from worsening. If the tooth is sensitive to hot and cold, the problem is more complex. Try to chew on the other side until you see your dentist. If the crack is above the gum line, you may need a root canal and a crown. A more resounding crack means the tooth must be pulled, though. Fillings can increase the chance of a crack.
Sensitive to cold teeth can be caused by cavities, worn tooth enamel or fillings, gum disease, fractured teeth, or exposed roots. Once your dentist figures out the problem, you might need a filling, a root canal, or treatment of your gums to replace tissue lost at the root. Orthodontia is a solution for straightening crooked teeth and aligning your bite.
Bruxism, also known as teeth grinding, can be caused by stress, misaligned teeth, sleep issues, allergies, headaches, a sore jaw, and cracked or loose teeth. If grinding your teeth at night, ask your dentist to fit you with a mouth guard. If it's a daytime problem, try meditation, exercise, or other ways to curb stress.
Wisdom teeth problems are common, with 90% of people having at least one impacted wisdom tooth. Problems with your wisdom teeth can cause cavities, damage neighboring teeth, and gum disease. Wisdom teeth generally come in between the ages of 17 and 25. If they become a problem, you may need to get them removed.
