What Are the Common Dental Issues?

Dental disease has plagued people for centuries, but the main causes have not changed much. Here are some of the most common oral issues found among people.

Common Dental Issues

Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is one of the most common dental health issues. It develops when the bacteria in your mouth convert sugars from food into acids. These acids can erode a tooth’s enamel, causing small holes. Without treatment, tooth decay can result in a cavity. A cavity is a hole in the tooth that progressively grows deeper until it must be restored with a filling or crown.

Untreated tooth decay can also allow bacteria to reach the pulp and cause an infection. An infected tooth can cause severe pain and may eventually have to be removed.

Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is a common issue that causes discomfort and pain when eating or drinking specific foods or beverages. Tooth sensitivity is caused by the wearing away of the enamel, or outer layer, of the teeth.

Enamel is designed to protect the teeth from damaging substances like food, bacteria, and acid. If enamel becomes worn down, its protective abilities are reduced, leaving the sensitive tooth more susceptible to irritation.

Gum Disease

When plaque and tartar form on your teeth, bacteria build up, which can cause gum inflammation, also known as gingivitis; if left untreated, it can lead to gum disease.

Scaling your teeth can remove plaque and tartar, as well as smooth the surface of your teeth. This can help prevent its formation in the future.

Mouth Sores

A mouth sore, also known as a canker sore, is an ulcer in the mouth. Mouth sores are usually painful, and they can be contagious.

Mouth sores can be caused by a number of factors, but the most common causes are accidentally biting the cheek, eating acidic foods, and suffering from dry mouth.

Bad Breath

Halitosis, or chronic bad breath, is when the mouth has an unpleasant odor. There are many different reasons for halitosis, such as poor oral hygiene, infection, and even certain types of medication. Chronic bad breath can be caused by bacteria that build up in the mouth.

Missing Teeth

There are a few different types of missing teeth, including decayed teeth, permanent teeth that never grew in, molars that didn’t get replaced, or a tooth that had to be pulled out due to decay or accident.

Impacted Teeth

When a tooth is impacted, it’s “stuck” below the gum line. This can cause the tooth to be crowded, or if there are multiples, it may be impacted in multiple teeth.

An impacted tooth may be painful and more prone to infection. If left untreated, the tooth may need to be removed.