common dental problems St. Petersburg FL

4 Common Dental Problems 

Dental problems are never fun. However, the good news is that you can prevent most problems. Many dental problems can be solved by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, eating properly, and regular dental check-ups with Dr. Brian Leeson, the best dentist in St. Petersburg FL. Educating yourself about common dental problems and their causes can also go a long way towards prevention. Here’s a list of some of them: 

Bad Breath 

Bad breath, also called halitosis, can be quite embarrassing. According to the Journal of Natural Science, Biology, and Medicine, about 85% of people with persistent bad breath have a dental condition that is to blame.These dental conditions include: 

  • Gum disease
  • Cavities
  • Oral cancer 
  • Dry mouth
  • Tongue bacteria

Using mouthwash to cover up bad breath when there is a dental problem will only mask the smell and not cure it. If you have a chronic bad breath, please visit your St. Pete dentist to rule out any of these problems.

Decay of the tooth

Tooth decay, also known as cavities, is second only to common cold as the most prevalent disease in the United States. Tooth decay occurs when plaque, the sticky substance that forms on the teeth, is combined with sugars and/or starches in the food you eat. This combination produces acids that attack the enamel tooth.

You can get cavities at any age.  As you age, you can develop cavities as your tooth enamel erupts. Dry mouth due to age or medication may also lead to cavities, explains our friend and the best dentist in Shreveport LA, Dr. Ben Kacos. 

The best way to prevent tooth decay is by brushing twice a day, flossing every day, and going to your regular dental check-ups.

Eating healthy foods and avoiding high-sugar snacks and drinks are also ways to prevent decay. Your dentist may recommend additional treatments that may help to reduce your risk.

Gum Disease (Periodontal)

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a gum infection that surrounds the teeth. It is also one of the main causes of tooth loss amongst adults.

Everyone is at risk for gum disease, but it usually occurs after 30 years of age. Risk factors include smoking, diabetes, and dry mouth. Symptoms include bad breath, red, swollen, tender or bleeding gums, sensitive teeth, and painful chewing.

If you have any signs of gum disease, you should see your dentist and possibly get a deep cleaning St. Pete dentist, Dr. Leeson says. Gingivitis and periodontitis are two major stages of gum disease. Regular dental check-ups with at least twice daily brushing and flossing play an important role in the prevention of gum disease.

Toothache and St. Pete Emergency Dentist 

While many toothaches and dental emergencies can easily be avoided through regular visits to the dentist, accidents can and do occur. It can be very painful and scary to have a dental emergency.

Common problems that require an emergency visit to your dentist include a broken or cracked tooth, abscessed tooth, or an accident tooth.

If you have a fractured or dislocated jaw or severe cuts to your tongue, lips, or mouth, go to the hospital for trauma treatment. If you have a tooth abscess that causes difficulty swallowing, or if you have developed a fever or facial swelling, take emergency care as well.

Contact 4th St Family Dentistry

If you are experiencing any of these four dental problems, it may be time to visit us. Please schedule an appointment with Dr. Leeson so he can get your oral health back on track.

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