Common Dental Problems and Their Treatments

The teeth perform many important functions, such as biting, tearing, and chewing food. They are also the first thing people see when you smile. Unfortunately, dental problems can develop that put your oral health at risk. Dental problems can range from mild to severe, and treatment is dependent on the type and severity of the condition.

Here is a look at some of the most common dental problems and their treatments.

Tooth Decay

The most common dental problem that your Melbourne FL dentist treats is tooth decay. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 1 in 4 adults in the U.S. have untreated tooth decay. Cavities are caused by a build-up of plaque on the teeth that converts sugars into acids that eat away at the enamel, forming small holes in the teeth.

In their earliest stage, cavities can sometimes be treated with fluoride treatments. However, if the decay has progressed, a filling may be needed. Depending on the size of the filling, a crown may be used to protect the weakened tooth. In severe cases, a decayed tooth may require a root canal or extraction.

Gum Disease

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is an infection that causes damage to the tissues responsible for holding the teeth in place. Gum disease is most commonly caused by poor brushing and flossing habits which allow plaque to build up and harden on tooth surfaces, resulting in tartar. Gum disease generally starts with red, swollen gums that bleed easily but can progress over time, possibly leading to tooth loss.

The treatment for gum disease is based on the stage of the disease and your overall oral health. Nonsurgical treatments generally include antibiotics and a scaling and root planing procedure. In severe cases, surgical options may be recommended, such as guided tissue regeneration and pocket reduction surgery.

Tooth Sensitivity

Sensitive teeth can result in temporary pain in your teeth that usually occurs upon exposure to hot, cold, or sweet substances. Tooth sensitivity can have a variety of causes, such as brushing too hard, gum recession, teeth grinding, or cracked or chipped teeth.

Treatment for tooth sensitivity is dependent on the underlying cause. For example, if a cracked or chipped tooth is to blame, your Melbourne Florida dentist may recommend a procedure called bonding, in which a tooth-colored composite resin is used to repair the tooth. Other treatments include desensitizing toothpastes, a surgical gum graft if the tooth root is exposed, or a root canal if other treatments are not effective.

Abscessed Teeth

An abscessed tooth refers to a type of dental infection that can occur due to an injury, untreated cavity, or old dental work. A few of the most common symptoms of abscessed teeth include bad breath and fever. Some people may also develop toothaches, tooth sensitivity, or discomfort with the pressure of biting or chewing.

If you are diagnosed with an abscessed tooth, your dentist may recommend opening up and draining the abscess. A root canal can be used to get rid of the infection and save the tooth. If the affected tooth cannot be saved, it may need to be extracted to get rid of the infection. Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to prevent the infection from spreading to nearby teeth.

Schedule an Appointment

Dental problems can affect your general health, self-confidence, and overall quality of life. If you are experiencing any signs of dental problems, it’s important to speak with your dentist right away. The experienced family dental professionals at Artistic Touch Dentistry offer a wide range of services to help you maintain your smile, such as fillings, periodontal disease treatment, tooth extraction, sealants, and crowns. For more information about our services or to schedule an appointment, contact Artistic Touch Dentistry at 321-724-1400.