In 2019, only 65% of American adults saw a dentist in the past year, which explains why dental issues are so common.
Struggling with dental problems can wreak havoc on your physical well-being, destroy your confidence, and affect your quality of life. Perhaps you’re worried about your oral health, but you’re not sure what the common issues are.
Sounds like you? Don’t worry, you’ve come to the right place. Here are five common dental issues and how to fix them.
1. Tooth Decay
One of the most pervasive dental problems is tooth decay, which impacts around 91% of Americans over twenty years old. This happens when your teeth are constantly exposed to large amounts of sugar and acids, which corrode the enamel. If you don’t properly brush or floss, then bacteria will eventually form and result in tooth decay.
Luckily, you can prevent this by maintaining good oral hygiene. Make sure you brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and visit a dental hygienist every six months.
2. Bad Breath (Halitosis)
When you don’t prioritize oral health, then you could get bad breath, otherwise known as halitosis. It also happens if you eat pungent food like garlic or anchovies, but don’t properly clean your teeth. But consistent bad breath can be a sign of gum disease, so it’s important to find the best dentist in the area and book an appointment.
3. Gum Disease
Another sign of poor dental health is gum disease. The symptoms include inflammation around the teeth and bleeding, especially when brushing or flossing your teeth. If you notice this, it’s important to take immediate action to prevent tooth loss and even bone damage.
To prevent this, brush and floss daily.
4. Sensitive Teeth
Regardless of the type of dental care you follow, a major issue patients have is with sensitive teeth. You may notice that sipping a cold drink is painful or acidic food is uncomfortable to consume. If this is the case, then the enamel has likely worn down on your teeth and the dentin is exposed.
The best way to fix dental issues like sensitive teeth is by choosing products that are tailored towards them. You may also consider getting a crown, root canal, or fluoride treatment so you’re no longer in discomfort.
5. Teeth Grinding
Otherwise known as bruxism, teeth grinding mostly happens when you’re asleep.
This constant pressure can damage your teeth and cause jaw pain over an extended period. Depending on the severity of your case, the dentist will give you a custom-made mouthguard to wear when you’re asleep. This will reduce the amount of grinding and protect your teeth.
Know the Common Dental Issues Today
Hopefully, after reading this article, you’re familiar with the most common dental issues.
Make sure you’re aware of issues like teeth grinding, bad breath, and gum disease as they can have long-lasting effects. You should also use preventative measures to stop tooth decay and sensitive teeth so you’re comfortable. Good luck!
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