At Medland Dental, we know that maintaining good oral health is essential for overall well-being. Regular dental care and preventive measures can help you avoid common dental issues that lead to discomfort, pain, and expensive treatments. This blog post will discuss the ten most common dental problems and provide practical tips on preventing them. By following these suggestions, you can maintain a healthy smile and enjoy optimal oral health.
- Tooth Decay: Tooth decay, also known as a cavity, is a prevalent dental issue caused by bacteria and acids eroding the tooth enamel. To prevent tooth decay, brush your teeth at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks, and visit Medland Dental regularly for active maintenance appointments (also known as an examination and professional cleaning). How regularly you should have these active maintenance appointments will depend on the results of your thorough teeth and soft tissue assessment by your Dentist and Oral Health Therapist.
- Gum Disease: Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an infection that affects the gums and supporting tissues of the teeth. To prevent gum disease, establish an excellent oral hygiene routine, including brushing and flossing, using an antibacterial mouthwash, not smoking, eating a balanced diet, and visiting Medland Dental for regular active maintenance.
- Bad Breath: Bad breath, or halitosis, can be embarrassing and a sign of underlying dental issues. Prevent bad breath by maintaining good oral hygiene, including brushing your teeth and tongue, flossing, using mouthwash, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding foods with strong odours.
- Tooth Sensitivity: Tooth sensitivity can cause discomfort when consuming hot, cold, or sweet foods and beverages. Prevent tooth sensitivity by using a soft-bristled toothbrush, avoiding highly acidic foods and drinks, using a recommended desensitising toothpaste, and consulting your Dentist for advice on proper oral care products.
- Tooth Erosion: Tooth erosion occurs when the tooth enamel wears away due to acid exposure. Prevent tooth erosion by limiting acidic foods and drinks, using a straw to minimise contact with teeth, rinsing your mouth with water after consuming acidic substances, and maintaining good oral hygiene habits.
- Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Bruxism can lead to tooth wear, jaw pain, and headaches. Prevent teeth grinding by managing stress, avoiding stimulating substances like caffeine and alcohol, wearing a mouthguard at night, practising relaxation techniques, and consulting your Medland Dental Dentist for further guidance.
- Oral Cancer: Regular oral cancer screenings can help detect this potentially life-threatening condition early. To prevent oral cancer, avoid tobacco products, limit alcohol consumption, protect your lips from the sun with lip balm, and eat a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables. You can rest assured that every Medland Dental active maintenance appointment includes an oral cancer screening.
- Dry Mouth: Dry mouth can result from medication side effects or medical conditions, leading to tooth decay and bad breath. Prevent dry mouth by staying hydrated or chewing sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva flow, avoiding alcohol and tobacco, and discussing medication concerns with your Medland Dentist or Oral Health Therapist.
- Stained or Discoloured Teeth: Stains and discolouration can affect your smile’s appearance. Prevent stained or discoloured teeth by practising good oral hygiene, avoiding tobacco products, limiting consumption of stain-causing foods and drinks like coffee and red wine and having regular active maintenance appointments at Medland Dental. You may also consider discussing your teeth whitening options at your next appointment.
- Broken tooth: Practicing good oral hygiene and having regular active maintenance helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease, which can weaken the teeth and increase the risk of fractures. Wear a properly fitted mouthguard if participating in sports or engaging in activities with a risk of dental injury. Mouthguards provide a protective barrier and absorb impact, reducing the likelihood of a broken tooth. Refrain from biting and chewing on hard objects like ice, popcorn kernels, hard candies, pens, fingernails, or opening packages with your teeth. These habits can put excessive pressure on your teeth and increase the risk of fractures.
You may have noticed a theme in this article; regular active maintenance appointments can help to reduce the risk of having one of these common dental issues occur. The team at Medland Dental are committed to delivering exceptional treatment, comfortable appointments and helping you maintain excellent oral health.
Take a proactive step towards your oral health by scheduling an appointment with us. Our skilled Dentists will conduct a thorough examination, address any concerns you may have, and provide the necessary preventive and treatment measures to keep your smile healthy and vibrant. Book your appointment here or phone 07 3426 5777.
