Maintaining good oral health is a must to ensure our overall well-being. Even after following the best oral practices, and brushing and flossing twice a day, people end up having dental problems such as gum disease or gingivitis.
Some dental problems are easy to treat and prevent but some escalate and become more complicated than we initially anticipated.
Consequently, let us dive into some common dental problems that can lead to more severe complications when left untreated or ignored.
Common Dental Problems Becoming Severe
Tooth Decay
One of the most common dental problems these days is none other than tooth decay. Tooth Decay occurs when harmful bacteria in the mouth produce acids that gradually erode the enamel, causing holes or cavities in the teeth. These cavities can be easily treated with fillings initially, but if ignored can lead to complications such as:
- Tooth abscess: An untreated cavity can progress to the pulp, causing a painful infection known as a tooth abscess. This condition requires root canal therapy or even tooth extraction in severe cases.
- Tooth sensitivity: As the enamel deteriorates, you may experience increased tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages.
Gum Disease
Gum disease refers to an inflammation of the gums that can escalate with time if not catered to. Good oral practices go a long way in reversing gum disease during the early phase but can turn severe if not catered to initially. Some of the complications caused by gum disease include:
- Tooth loss: Gum disease at the later stages can lead to tooth loss as it damages the supporting structures of the teeth such as the bone.
- Systemic health issues: The studies reveal that gum disease can lead to systemic health problems, such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections.
Dental Abscess
A dental abscess is a pocket of pus that forms within or around the tooth due to a bacterial infection. It can be excruciatingly painful and may require immediate treatment. Not treating the dental abscess can lead to painful and disfiguring swelling in the face and can also spread the infection to other parts of the body.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Impacted wisdom teeth are third molars that do not fully erupt from the gum line due to lack of space or misalignment. Ignoring impacted wisdom teeth can result in various complications, including:
- Pain and discomfort: Impacted wisdom teeth often cause pain, swelling, and irritation in the back of the mouth.
- Infection: Partially erupted wisdom teeth can trap food particles and bacteria, leading to gum infections and abscesses.
- Damage to adjacent teeth: Impacted wisdom teeth can exert pressure on neighboring teeth, causing them to shift or become misaligned.
Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)
Bruxism refers to the grinding or clenching of teeth, often during sleep. Over time, bruxism can lead to serious dental complications such as:
- Tooth wear and damage: Constant grinding can wear down the enamel, leading to tooth sensitivity and an increased risk of fractures.
- Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders: Bruxism can contribute to TMJ disorders, resulting in jaw pain, headaches, and difficulty in opening or closing the mouth.
Conclusion
Maintaining regular dental check-ups and addressing dental issues promptly is crucial to prevent common dental problems from becoming complicated and leading to severe health consequences. Remember, early intervention is key to maintaining a healthy and beautiful smile while avoiding potentially painful and costly complications. Book your appointment with a professional dentist in Berwick now to identify your dental problems and fix them at the earliest before they turn worse. Visit Berwick Dental Clinic and Surgery now.