Tooth Decay
Caries, or tooth decay, is a preventable disease. Tooth decay may negatively impact one's quality of life and even endanger your life.
Carbohydrate-rich foods such as candy, cookies, soft drinks and even fruit juices leave deposits on your teeth. These deposits bond with the bacteria that normally survive in your mouth and form plaque. The combination of deposits and plaque forms acids that can damage the mineral structure of teeth, which can result in tooth decay.
Sensitive Teeth
Your teeth expand and contract in reaction to changes in temperature. Hot and cold food and beverages can cause pain or irritation to people with sensitive teeth. Over time, tooth enamel can be worn down, gums may recede or teeth may develop microscopic cracks, exposing the interior of the tooth and irritating nerve endings. Just breathing cold air can be painful for those with extremely sensitive teeth. Sensitive formulation toothpastes, restorations or sometimes nightguards can help to resolve tooth sensitivity.
Grinding
Grinding, also known as bruxism, can be a habitual involuntary habit. Grinding is considered a normal developmental stage of childhood. Many children tend to grow out of this habit and do not grow into adults who grind. Grinding can wear away primary and permanent teeth. Grinding that effects permanent teeth can cause dental or muscular pain and if often corrected with a nightguard.
Gum Disease
Gingivitis, or gum disease, is the inflammation of the gum tissue often caused by plaque accumulation over time which can progress into tooth loss and bone damage. In the early stage of gingivitis gums can bleed easily and become red and swollen. As the disease progresses into periodontitis, teeth may fall out or need to be removed by a dentist due to bone damamge. Gum disease is highly preventable and can usually be avoided by daily brushing and flossing. One indicator of gum disease is consistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth.
Canker Sores
Canker sores (aphthous ulcers) are usually small sores inside the mouth with a white or gray base surrounded by a red border. Generally, the ulcerations last one to two weeks, and often recur. The duration of canker sores can be reduced by the use of antimicrobial mouthwashes or topical agents.
Orthodontic Problems
A bite that does not meet properly (a malocclusion) can be inherited, or some types may be acquired. Some causes of malocclusion include missing or extra teeth, crowded teeth or misaligned jaws. Accidents or developmental issues, such as finger or thumb sucking over an extended period of time, may cause malocclusions.