5 Common Dental Issues That Require Medical Attention

Teeth happen to be one of the most important parts of the human anatomy, yet most of the people tend to neglect them. The most common reason is the phobia associated with dental treatment. Some people do it out of sheer laziness and indifference while others avoid dental visits to save money. Little do they realize that ignoring small problems can cause big ones! However, timely and proper treatment can resolve issues quickly and prevent long-term problems. Let’s check 5 common dental issues that require medical intervention:

1.Cavities: Cavities are perhaps the most common issue faced by people of all age groups. The condition is attributed to oral bacteria which thrive due to improper brushing. The bacteria breed on remnants of sugar and starch that are deposited on or beaten the teeth. They cause formation of acid which dissolves the tooth enamel to cause cavities. While proper dental hygiene is recommended for prevention, regular checkups are also required. At early stages, the dentist can resolve the problem by filling the cavities. However, root canal treatment or even extraction may be needed in case of extensive damage.

2.Gum Disease: Like cavities, gum disease is another common dental problem caused by poor oral hygiene. Other factors such as prolonged smoking and genetic susceptibility may also lead to the disease. The condition is characterized by symptoms such as bleeding gums, bad breath, and tooth sensitivity. Some people do not even show symptoms, which is the reason that the condition may go undetected for years. Gingivitis, a milder form of the disease, is prevalent in teenagers. However, the condition may worsen and result in periodontitis, which is associated with elevated risk of heart disease and stroke. For this reason, Dentists Atlanta and all over the globe lay stress on early detection and treatment of gum disease. They recommend deep cleaning along with use of medicated mouthwash as the treatment. Antibiotics and surgery may also be required in serious cases.

3.Bad Breath/Halitosis: Bad breath is an oral issue that a majority of people tend to ignore but it can be embarrassing and uncomfortable. There could be several causes for it, ranging from lack of proper brushing, tooth decay, bacterial deposit on tongue, and dry mouth. Consumption of pungent foods such as onion and garlic is another common reason. Following a proper oral hygiene routine and avoiding pungent foods can be effective for resolving this problem. If not, you should see a dentist to detect and treat issues like cavities. They may also help in further diagnosis for conditions such as glandular condition and post nasal drip.

4.Tooth Sensitivity: Tooth sensitivity refers to the pain and/or discomfort experienced while eating or drinking foods and drink that are too hot or too cold. People suffering from it may suffer from deteriorated quality of life. The reasons may vary from minor ones such as cavities to more serious ones such as exposed root surfaces. The latter is a cause of concern as the exposed roots result in fluids reaching the nerves and stimulating them. Patients with sensitive teeth must see a dentist immediately before things get worse.

5.Toothaches and Dental Emergencies: Toothaches must be taken seriously and not left to over-the-counter painkillers. A visit to the dentist is essential to diagnose and resolve the underlying issue. Dental emergencies include problems such as a broken tooth, accidental damage to the teeth, and an abscessed tooth. Ignoring such emergencies can cause swelling, serious infection and fever. Immediate medical attention can save the tooth as well as prevent long term problems.

There are several other problems that must be addressed by an experienced dentist. These include yellowing teeth, tooth erosion, Canker sores, and painful growth of Wisdom Teeth. Whether your problem is big or small, you must not delay or ignore treatment because healthy teeth mean a healthier you.