Dental health is one of the most important aspects of your overall physical health. Taking care of your teeth and gums involves daily brushing and flossing as well as six month checkups with your trusted dental professional. With this proper dental regiment, most dental problems can be avoided. Even with perfect care, your still may experience one or more of the top five common dental care issues.
The number one dental care issue is tooth decay. Although most tooth decay occurs in children, adults are also at risk. The best way to avoid tooth decay is by brushing and flossing regularly. Along with poor oral hygiene, food and beverages containing sugars and starches can contribute to tooth decay. Maintaining proper oral care after these types of food and beverages will help keep decay at bay. Routine dental visits will also help to prevent small dental problems from developing into larger issues.
As we age, gum disease becomes more common. Most often, an excess of plaque can be attributed to this dental condition. When left on the teeth and around the gumline, plaque turns into tartar, which causes inflammation. Untreated, this inflammation leads to a condition called periodontitis. Periodontitis is a gum disease which causes gums to recede and bone to pull away from the teeth. The best way to prevent this unnecessary disease is to have regular checkups every six months.
Toothaches are a common dental health issue. There are many reasons for toothaches: nerve damage can cause severe toothaches, as can cavities, grinding and clenching your teeth and even gum disease. All of these conditions are easily treatable. It’s vital for you to visit Dr Gilmer immediately when you’re experiencing any abnormal dental symptoms. Dr Gilmer will be able to accurately diagnose and treat the reason for your dental discomfort.
The fourth most common dental health issue concerns overly sensitive teeth. Over time, brushing too aggressively, grinding and clenching your teeth or excessive bleaching can cause your teeth to become more sensitive than normal. Additionally, gum recession can cause your teeth to feel more sensitive than normal. Dr Gilmer will be able to recommend the appropriate types of toothpastes and rinses to help ease your sensitivity.
The fifth most common dental health issue is acid erosion. This dental condition occurs when the enamel on your teeth has literally been eroded as a result of coming in contact with an excessive amount of acid. Eating highly acidic food like oranges, lemons or limes can cause acid erosion. As we age, erosion can occur from tooth decay or gum disease. Symptoms of acid erosion include general sensitivity, a loss of enamel, or even discolored spots on the surface of the tooth. Be sure to ask Dr Gilmer for dental treatment options.
As you can see, these five dental care issues are all easily treatable, and in some cases completely avoidable. Regular dental checkups and preventative maintenance are key to prolonging optimal dental health.