Humans undeniably have a morbid sense of curiosity. After all, you’re reading this post! Maybe it has something to do with an ingrained impulse to absorb information, or some sort of survival instinct via fact-gathering, but in any case, there’s something satisfying about learning about various health conditions. If you’re craving a dose of dental problems, check out these four common oral afflictions.
1. Cavities
You likely know ‘em, but you probably don’t like ‘em – cavities have a notorious reputation, especially amongst children. Many kids have heard warnings about eating too much sugar and developing toothaches, but sometimes cavities are more complicated than that. Genetics, for example, can play a role in how easily you contract them. Regardless, it’s the number one most common health problem in the US!
2. Gum Disease
Cavities attack your teeth, and gum disease attacks your gums. Mild cases can be treated with consistent oral hygiene, but if you get the more advanced version of the disease – periodontitis – then your dentist will probably recommend something more involved. Scaling and root planing is a popular solution in these cases.
Gum disease isn’t quite as frequent as cavities but still has some shocking statistics. About 42% of adults over the age of 30 have gum disease!
3. Dental Sensitivity
Do your teeth hurt when you bite into something cold – or something hot? Yes, it’s a pretty common experience, but dental sensitivity does count as an oral condition. Some cases are actually treatable!
Dental veneers, for example, can mitigate these harsh sensations by shielding weakened enamel from the elements. Crowns, fillings, and bonding, meanwhile, can cover cracks, chips, or cavities that could be exposing the more sensitive layers of your smile.
4. Dental Staining
Are you glad to find out that you’re not the only one with yellowy teeth? On the contrary, when asked what they would like to change about their smile, most patients answer, “I’d like whiter teeth!”
There are many ways your dentist can help you achieve that goal. A teeth whitening treatment involves applying a safe bleaching agent to your enamel in order to lift surface stains. Dental veneers and bonding can improve your aesthetics too, though technically they don’t eliminate dental stains. Instead, tooth-colored materials will conceal your discoloration and provide you with a seamless, natural look.
Conclusion
Dental problems are more common than you might think. It can be tough to take care of your oral health, especially by yourself – that’s why doctors practice dentistry. Your dentist will be happy to help you with whatever condition or aesthetic problem you have, so there’s no need to feel embarrassed or ashamed when you make an appointment. Give their office a call with confidence!
About the Author
Dr. Natalya Ramsay is passionate about dentistry – and her patients. She goes above and beyond to help them enjoy healthier and prettier smiles, and that enthusiasm extends to those she treats as part of her work with the Medical Teams International Dental Van (a program which provides mobile dental care for low-income communities). If you’d like to know more about oral conditions and how to treat them, call Dr. Ramsay’s office at 503-472-1402.