Even if, according to official numbers, older Americans are now keeping their natural teeth for much longer than ever before, there are also plenty dental problems that appear with this longevity. The only way in which you can avoid such issues is to regularly visit your dentist but as we know it, not everyone does that. It doesn’t matter if you are younger or older, maintaining a good oral health is mandatory because such issues can lead to more severe health problems.

However, there are some dental problems that are more common than others and which many people have to deal with in their lifetime. Unfortunately, not many are aware of them and, in time, these issues end up completely destroying the teeth. In order to avoid that we will be talking about the most common dental problems and how to fix them before it’s too late.

Tooth Decay

Everyone gets cavities, it’s just the harsh reality and one of the most common dental problems. They can appear either on the teeth’s surface, around older fillings, or even at the root of the teeth. There are numerous causes of cavities and they don’t appear just because you ate too many sweets, as our parents used to tell us. In order to prevent tooth decay, add a fluoride rinse to your usual brushing routine. No, this is not just for kids, and it can protect the teeth from cavities. However, talk with your dentist before doing this and see if it’s the right option for you. If you already have cavities, only a professional can solve this issue by getting rid of the problem areas in your teeth before the decay spreads.

Overbite

In case of an overbite, your upper front teeth usually overlap your lower front ones, offering an unusual appearance to your mouth. This problem is also commonly-called “Bucktooth” and it appears frequently. It is usually genetic, but your overbite can be fixed easily with either braces, retainers, or surgery. Many people feel insecure because of this problem because it gives the face an unusual, rounded look. Also, it can cause other problems like teeth clenching and grinding, headaches, periodontal problems such as tooth decay, respiratory and speech issues. It is not recommended to be left untreated, regardless of how “cute” it may look.

Toothaches

Toothaches are among the most common dental problems that a person can struggle with. They happen unexpectedly, and the causes are many and varied. From cavities and sensitivity to things like chipped or broken teeth. So, in case you have to wait a few more days until your appointment, you can try to take a pain reliever, floss or rinse your mouth with warm water. However, in the case of a swelling, or abscess, or if you have a fever, you should go see your dentist urgently. It can be a more serious problem. Don’t wait too long because dental health is connected to your overall health.

Tooth Sensitivity

Most people have to deal with tooth sensitivity to either cold or hot beverages or foods. And because ice cream and hot chocolate should make you feel better, not worse when you eat or drink them, this problem needs solving. There are a lot of causes for tooth sensitivity, from cavities, gum disease, and worn fillings or tooth enamel, to exposed roots or broken tooth. The only way to solve this is to visit your dentist and let them decide the exact cause. Depending on that, you might need a fluoride gel or a desensitizing toothpaste, or a more serious treatment.

Crooked Teeth

Not only kids have crooked teeth, but a large number of adults too. If this is the case, then only a professional can fix the issue by straightening your teeth and aligning your bite. It’s extremely important to know that a pretty smile won’t only make you more confident, but it may improve your overall health. Apart from this, you may no longer experience jaw pain. In order to fix this issue, experts can use braces, retainers, or even aligners.

Gum-Related Issues

In case your gums appear to pull away from your teeth, they’re bleeding or are tender, then you might be on the road to gingivitis or gum disease. Things can also get worse if you are leaving this issue untreated, as you might end up with periodontitis. Usually, these common dental problems are caused by plaque buildup below the gum line. This problem can even cause bone loss at its most advanced stages. This will make your teeth shift or even fall out, making it difficult to eat or even speak normally. You can prevent this problem by regularly visiting your dentist, brushing, flossing, and rinsing with an antiseptic every day.

Wisdom Teeth Issues

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, come in when you’re already an adult, as opposed to all your other teeth. Unfortunately, they usually come in with various problems. The vast majority of people have at least one wisdom teeth which is problematic, impacted, or not able to fully grow. These issues, while common, must not be left untreated because they can cause lots of problems. Among those are cavities, gum disease, and damage to the other, healthy teeth.

The best idea would be to have your dentist track the development of your wisdom teeth, which usually come in between 17 and 25-years-old. If they are not healthy, the best solution is to have them removed as soon as possible.

Conclusion

Finally, dealing with the most common dental problems that exist is no easy task, especially if you have left these issues untreated for a long time. However, it’s mandatory to regularly visit your dentist and discuss any issues that you might have. Then, the doctor will help you decide what the best treatments for your problems are. Everybody should be aware of how important dental health is for your entire body health. Ignoring even the smallest signs of trouble can lead to serious complications in other parts of the body.