Oral health issues can occur at any age, so dental care is critical throughout your entire life. Healthy practices like flossing, brushing, and regular checkups with your dentist can help you avoid serious problems. Read on to learn about the most common dental issues affecting adults.
1. Tooth Decay
The inside of the mouth is filled with bacteria that feed on sugars from food. That bacteria can produce acids that wear away your tooth enamel, causing the teeth to decay. Tooth decay can lead to tooth sensitivity, cavities, and other problems without treatment. A dentist can spot early signs of tooth decay and prevent further damage to your teeth.
2. Gum Disease
When you have plaque buildup in your mouth, you can develop gum disease. According to the Dental Health Society, almost 50% of adults 30 or older show some signs of this condition. If gum disease goes untreated, it can lead to periodontitis, which can damage the bones and tissue in your mouth. Treating gum disease in its early stages can prevent complications.
3. Broken Teeth
Teeth can break for many reasons, even when you prioritize dental care. Mouth injuries can lead to cracked or broken teeth, and chewing hard foods can also cause damage. This condition is often painful, so a quick dental visit is best. Depending on the severity of the tooth damage, your dentist may recommend a filling, a crown, or another treatment.
4. Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding can occur during sleep or when awake. It’s a frequent jaw pain source and can harm your teeth. This condition is often related to an underlying dental issue, such as an abnormal bite. Wearing a mouthguard while sleeping can help prevent teeth grinding and related complications, like chronic headaches.
5. Sensitive Teeth
Dentin hypersensitivity, commonly called tooth sensitivity, happens when the enamel protecting your teeth wears away. The lack of enamel leaves the dentin layer of your teeth exposed, causing sensitivity to hot and cold foods and beverages. Although tooth decay is a frequent cause of this condition, other dental ailments, like enamel erosion or gum disease, can contribute to tooth sensitivity. Fluoride treatments can strengthen enamel, providing relief for sensitive teeth.
Oral health problems can cause other health issues, so adults should prioritize dental care. While many adults struggle with dental problems, the most common ones are treatable. You can correct these issues and maintain a healthy smile. Contact us to make an appointment for dental care!