Top 10 Dental Problems We Treat Every Day at Our Addison Office
A healthy smile is essential for overall well-being, and regular visits to a general dentist are key to maintaining optimal oral health. Many common dental problems can be prevented or treated with early intervention, which is why it’s important to see your dentist for routine check-ups and care. At Addison Dental Group, we offer comprehensive services to address a wide range of dental issues, from routine cleanings to more specialized treatments.
Whether you’re experiencing discomfort, cosmetic concerns, or just need preventive care, we’re here to help. In this blog, we’ll explore the top 10 dental problems we treat every day and how our team can help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.
10 Common Dental Problems We Treat
Tooth Decay and Cavities
Tooth decay and cavities are one of the most common dental problems we notice daily. Cavities form when acid produced by bacteria in the mouth weakens tooth enamel. If they are not treated, they can develop into more serious damage, such as tooth loss.
We offer fillings at Addison Dental Group to repair teeth with cavities. A filling can help protect the tooth and restore normal function. We provide composite fillings, which are white fillings that match the natural color of your teeth.
Regular teeth cleanings and preventative dentistry are effective in preventing cavities. Regular cleanings can detect any decay in its early stages, helping to prevent further damage.
Gum Disease (Periodontal Disease)
Gum disease is a widespread condition that begins as gingivitis (swelling of the gums), and, left untreated, can advance to periodontitis (a more severe form of gum disease). It’s capable of producing symptoms that include bleeding gums, bad breath, and, in extreme cases, tooth loss.
At Addison Dental Group, our general dentist in Addison provides periodontal treatment to help you prevent gum disease. Scaling and root planing are a couple of our treatment options, which can clear away plaque and tartar that develop below your gum line. Surgery is, in some cases, an option for people who have severe symptoms.
If left untreated, gum disease can result in loss of teeth and cause other systemic health issues, including heart disease. This can be prevented with regular exams and cleanings.
Teeth Sensitivity
Living it with sensitive teeth can be painful, particularly when in contact with hot or cold foods or drinks and even sweet flavors. It is caused by enamel loss, recessed gums or tooth decay.
Our general dentist will determine the cause of your sensitivity and offer a series of treatments such as desensitizing toothpaste, fluoride applications or fillings to shield those sensitive areas.
Receiving regular dental exams, so we can monitor for early signs of tooth sensitivity, can help treat and prevent sensitive teeth.
TMJ Disorders
Common symptoms are pain when opening or closing the mouth, clicking and popping sounds, headaches, pain in the jaw and face, and neck aches.
If you’re suffering from TMJ, we have treatments at Addison Dental Group that address the issues, notably nightguards to prevent grinding and clenching, physical therapy, and various other ways to provide relief.
If the bite is corrected and stress managed before significant damage to the joints has occurred, the long-term effects of a TMJ disorder can be minimal.
Bad Breath (Halitosis)
Morbiferous breath (or halitosis) can result from subpar oral hygiene, gum disease, or some other health issue.
Regular, professional cleanings and good oral hygiene are the best defense against bad breath. In other cases, treatment can be aimed at addressing underlying problems such as gum disease or tooth decay.
To prevent bad breath, practice good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing your teeth regularly after meals.
Tooth Grinding (Bruxism)
Teeth grinding (commonly known as bruxism) is something that generally happens during sleep and can cause excessive wear of the teeth, jaw pain, or headaches.
A recommended night guard is used to eliminate the damage caused by grinding. These are custom devices designed to ease the pressure on your teeth and jaw while you sleep.
Stress management, avoiding caffeine, and a night guard can prevent bruxism-associated damage.
Crooked or Misaligned Teeth
Misshapen teeth can cause pain, chewing issues and lack of confidence in your smile.
Invisalign® and other orthodontic treatments are available to help straighten teeth and address bite problems. We can guide you to the right choice of treatment for your requirements.
Orthodontic treatment in young children can help avoid severe malocclusions later in life.
Tooth Loss
People lose teeth from decay, gum disease, or injury. Losing teeth doesn’t just impact the way you look. It can also have a dramatic effect on your ability to chew food properly and speak clearly.
We have dentures and other tooth replacement choices for you to address the function and appearance. Dentures are individually crafted for your mouth and offer a natural-looking answer to missing teeth.
Early preventive care and treating problems like decay or gum disease promptly may decrease the chance of losing teeth.
Stained and Discolored Teeth
Teeth can be stained with coffee, tea, and tobacco use. Discoloration can also be an effect of age and some medications.
Our dentist can offer professional whitening treatments to erase stains and return a smile to its bright appearance. We have other cosmetic solutions to tackle more severe discoloration!
Regular cleanings and staying away from foods and drinks that stain can help prevent teeth from turning yellow.
Oral Cancer
Oral cancer can be difficult to identify in its early stages. It can also be fatal if not diagnosed and treated.
With each examination performed, our general dentist in Addison can also monitor for any abnormalities or lesions in the mouth through oral cancer screenings. Early detection is the best way for successful treatment.
Screening and refraining from using tobacco products are key to preventing oral cancer.
Regular visits to Addison Dental Group are important for identifying ordinary dental issues and preserving a healthy smile. No matter your issue, whether it’s tooth decay, gum disease, or any other dental problem, we will help solve your problems.
Make an appointment at our dental office today to get a resolution of the above problems and keep your smile healthy and bright for years!
FAQs
Q1. Why do my gums bleed when I brush?
Bleeding gums are often a sign of gum disease. It can also occur from brushing too hard. Schedule a visit to your dentist to address this issue.
Q2. How can I prevent gum disease?
Prevent gum disease by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, avoiding smoking, and visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.
Q3. Can I still eat normally with dentures?
Yes, dentures are designed to help you eat comfortably. However, it may take some time to adjust to them, especially if it’s your first time wearing them.
Q4. Can I get my teeth cleaned if I have sensitive gums?
Yes, a gentle cleaning can be performed even if you have sensitive gums. Your dentist will ensure the procedure is comfortable and recommend ways to alleviate sensitivity.
Q5. How often should I visit the dentist?
It’s recommended to visit the dentist at least twice a year for regular check-ups and cleanings to prevent dental issues.
