The key to a perfect smile is good oral health. But common dental problems can prevent you from having fresh breath and a good set of pearly whites.
From tooth decay to gum disease, these oral health problems won’t go away on their own. Read on to learn about the most common dental problems and how you can prevent them from happening.
At Newstead Smiles, we’re passionate about all things teeth. So, wherever you’re looking for a dental check-up or a root canal treatment, Brisbane residents are always welcome to make an appointment.
Tooth Decay
Tooth decay can affect people of all ages. This oral health problem happens when a hole forms in your tooth. If a hole wasn’t bad enough already, decay can cause additional pain and infection.
When you have a plaque in your mouth, it converts the sugar you’ve consumed into acid. This acid consistently attacks your tooth enamel and eventually damages your teeth. If you think this is happening to you, keep an eye out for white spots near your gum line.
There are multiple ways you can prevent tooth decay. Make sure that you brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and maintain a balanced diet. If you visit your dentist regularly, they can professionally monitor your teeth for any potential tooth decay.
Bad Breath
Bad breath can affect your day-to-day life. It’s often a result of other dental health problems you might have, such as gum disease or cavities. Certain foods and lifestyle habits can also contribute to bad breath.
You can treat bad breath in many ways. For instance, you can brush your teeth and tongue after you eat, as well as floss at least once a day. There are some pungent foods you can also avoid or eat less of, such as onions and garlic, to minimise the risk of bad breath.
While gum or mouthwash might seem like an instant fix, it will only hide the smell rather than treat it. Visit your dentist at least twice a year for professional management of your bad breath.
Gum Disease
When plaque builds up over a period of time, there’s a chance it could develop into a bacterial infection and cause gum disease. It doesn’t cause much if any, pain so can go unnoticed for periods of time. If your gums bleed regularly or you have persistent bad breath, then there’s a chance you might have gum disease.
When diagnosed early, gum disease is easy to treat and manage. But if left untreated, the bone and tissue that holds your teeth in place can become infected, leading to tooth loss or other problems.
Regular brushing and flossing can minimise the risk of gum disease and visiting your dentist regularly improve your chances of having strong and healthy teeth.
Tooth Sensitivity
When tooth enamel wears away and exposes dentin, enjoying hot or cold foods and drinks becomes a challenge. The hot or cold sensation hits the nerve and can cause intense pain.
The causes of sensitive teeth vary from person to person. You could be brushing your teeth too hard, using too many tooth-whitening products, or overusing mouthwash. If you grind your teeth due to anxiety or stress, this can also contribute to sensitivity. Tooth sensitivity is connected to other dental health problems, such as gum disease or excessive plaque.
To reduce your chances of developing sensitive teeth, use a soft bristle toothbrush, and don’t brush your teeth too roughly. Reducing the number of acidic foods and drinks you consume can also help. When in doubt, consult your dentist about tooth sensitivity treatment.
When Should You See a Dentist?
If you think your oral health problem has worsened since your last dentist visit, then it’s a sign to book an appointment now. If you need dental treatment in Brisbane, then we can help. Contact Newstead Smiles today and we will help you get that perfect smile!