Common Conditions and When to See a Dentist
Having a dental problem isn’t something that should be taken lightly. There are several different conditions that can cause oral problems, and seeing a Dentist in Fountain Valley is the best way to make sure that these problems are treated as soon as possible. Gum disease Seeing a dentist is important for your oral health. Not only is it important to prevent tooth decay, but it can also help to detect gum problems early. Gum disease is a common problem that is caused by a build-up of bacteria and plaque. It can lead to soreness and bleeding in the gums. If left untreated, the infection can progress to the supporting structures of the bone around the teeth. When gum disease is diagnosed early, the infection can be reversed. The dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings and a special mouth rinse. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary. A dentist may recommend antibiotics to help kill the bacteria. They may also recommend a special mouth rinse that has fluoride. It is also important to brush and floss regularly. Tooth decay Getting regular dental checkups is one of the best ways to maintain a healthy smile. Regular checkups can detect early tooth decay before it has the chance to become a major problem. If left untreated, cavities can be very painful. The first step to preventing tooth decay is to brush and floss regularly. A healthy diet can also help. You can also get fluoride treatments to strengthen your teeth. Fluoride is found in most tap water, and is usually present in some toothpastes. Getting regular dental checkups is also a great way to prevent cavities from happening. Your dentist can do routine dental cleanings and take X-rays of your teeth. If you have a cavity, your dentist may recommend a filling to repair the tooth. The process of tooth decay involves acids from plaque eat away at the enamel and dentin layers of your teeth. When the decay reaches the pulp, it can lead to infection and pain. Sensitive teeth Having sensitive teeth can be a painful experience. They may even cause you to avoid eating certain foods. They may also be a sign of a serious dental problem such as gum disease or a cracked tooth. One of the more obvious ways to get rid of teeth sensitivity is to brush and floss regularly. Brushing and flossing regularly will not only remove plaque and food particles, but will also help keep your teeth and gums healthy. Using a soft bristled toothbrush will help minimize the amount of abrasion that your teeth receive. Tooth brushing is also a good idea when eating acidic foods, such as citrus fruits. The enamel on your teeth is what provides a protective layer against bacteria and acids. Brushing and flossing the right way will go a long way in preventing cavities and tooth pain. Failing to properly brush and floss every day can lead to gum inflammation and a buildup of plaque. Bruxism Bruxism, which is an involuntary clenching or grinding of the teeth, is one of the common problems of the mouth. It can cause significant dental health problems, especially if left untreated. Bruxism is most commonly caused by stress. However, it can also be caused by certain medications, personality types, and lifestyle habits. In addition, bruxism can cause damage to the jaw joints, teeth, and gums. People who suffer from bruxism may not even be aware that they have it. A dentist can diagnose bruxism by performing a dental exam and checking the jaw for signs of bruxism. Bruxism can cause a person to have a sore jaw, sensitive teeth, and a constant headache. It can also damage the teeth, dental crowns, and dental implants. Dental hygienists can restore damaged teeth. Oral cancer Having an oral cancer screening can help you catch the disease at its earliest stage. This is important as it increases your chances of survival. An oral cancer screening is a painless procedure that involves checking your mouth for signs of cancer. The dentist will look for areas that may be suspicious, including nodules and bleeding sores. X-rays may also be used to check for changes in your bite. An oral cancer screening is an important part of a regular dental visit. Your dentist will also check your oral cavity, which includes your lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, and the floor of your mouth beneath your tongue. He or she may refer you to an oncologist, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, or a head and neck surgeon.
