Often, common dental problems are preventable. All it takes is adhering to a brushing and flossing routine (and using the proper techniques), feeding on a balanced diet and going for regular dental cleanings and exams. With these practices, you can avoid issues like teeth sensitivity, crooked teeth and tooth decay.

Learning more about common dental issues and how they arise goes a long way in preventing them. Today, we closely examine the most common dental problems and how to avoid them. Enjoy your read!

Medically referred to as halitosis, the condition is characterized by an unpleasant mouth odour. Possible causes include food particles stuck between teeth and residue from odorous foods like fish. Bad breath can also result from a dry mouth or bad dental hygiene.

Since this is a common dental issue, there are several ways to prevent bad breath; the most common one is practicing good oral hygiene. Brushing at least twice daily and flossing once daily is a great place to start. Throw in some mouthwash, and you’re good to go.

If the cause of the halitosis is a dry mouth, consider chewing mints or gums. Additionally, ensure you drink enough water. However, if none of these measures works, it could indicate that the bad breath results from an underlying disease or infection. So, visit our dentist at Dental Studio on Wellesley to ascertain this and receive treatment.

Tooth decay is another common dental problem you can encounter. The ailment occurs when plaque combines with your food’s starches and/or sugars to produce acids. The acids attack the tooth enamel, forming weak spots that later become cavities.

So, how can you prevent tooth decay? First, develop and maintain an oral health routine. Brush and floss regularly to remove food particles lodged between teeth and plaque build-up. Second, consume healthy foods and avoid drinks and snacks with high sugar content. It’d also help to use fluoride toothpaste and make regular dentist visits.

An infection of the gums surrounding the teeth, gum disease is the primary cause of tooth loss in adults. While everyone can get gum disease, it is more prevalent in adults aged 30 and above. Additionally, smokers and people with diabetes are at high risk for the condition.

Two types of diseases afflict the gums and have different severities: gingivitis and periodontitis. The former is a milder form of gum disease characterized by red swollen gums, bad breath and occasional bleeding. The latter is an advanced form of gum disease where the plaque build-up has gone beyond the gum line, causing the gums and supporting bone to deteriorate.

Dental professionals recommend proper oral hygiene to prevent gum disease and possible tooth loss. This eliminates harmful bacteria and plaque.

The dentin layer conceals the teeth’ nerves. If exposed either by receding gums or other factors like old age, consuming certain foods can cause pain and discomfort. These include sweets, cold drinks, ice cream and hot drinks. Sometimes, your teeth can be sensitive to cold air.

Like the other dental problems mentioned above, you can prevent tooth sensitivity by practising proper brushing and flossing. Also, cut on acidic and sugary foods. However, tooth sensitivity can sometimes indicate a severe underlying condition such as a tooth abscess or cracked tooth. For this reason, consider getting a proper assessment by a dentist.

Tooth erosion is prevalent in children and attacks the tooth enamel. Acids from certain foods and beverages like juices and soda are corrosive and could cause thinning of the enamel and subsequent erosion. Another possible cause of tooth erosion is digestive complications like vomiting, which produces corrosive stomach acids.

The best way to combat tooth erosion is by brushing after meals to eliminate harmful bacteria and food residues. Also, consider taking milk or cheese to neutralize the acids in the mouth. What’s more? Reducing the consumption of acidic beverages and chewing gum could also go a long way.

While the above dental problems are common, leaving them unattended can harm your health. The good news? You do not have to deal with them; proper oral hygiene practices can help prevent them.

When it comes to dental problems, our dentist at Dental Studio on Wellesley offers tailored solutions. Ready to book an appointment? Reach out to us for a memorable experience in the dental chair.