Common Dental Problems and Treatment

We all wish to have a healthy set of teeth and gums for a beautiful smile, fresh breath, and also to boost our level of confidence. But certain dental problems can jeopardize your journey to maintain good oral health. Some common oral issues are:

Bad Breath

Halitosis, or chronic bad breath, can be an embarrassing and unpleasant problem. There are several reasons for halitosis, and the good news is that it can be treated.

Bad breath is caused by excess bacteria in the mouth. Bacteria thrive on bits of food that get caught between your teeth, as well as particles from your tongue and gums. Cigarette and cigar smoke and dry mouth are also common causes of bad breath.

If you suffer from bad breath, it’s important to see our dentist in Oakland, CA. We can examine your mouth and develop a treatment plan for you. In most cases, you may just need a special mouthwash or a professional cleaning.

Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is a breakdown of the tooth’s enamel and dentin that can be caused by a variety of things. It’s usually caused by plaque buildup, which is a sticky film that accumulates on the teeth when they aren’t properly cleaned. Another common cause of tooth decay is acid from foods and drinks. When allowed to linger on the teeth, these substances can cause tooth enamel to break down. 

A cavity is a hole in the tooth. It is caused by tooth decay. Once a cavity has developed, it must be treated with a filling or a dental crown.

Sensitive Teeth

Sensitive teeth can be caused by enamel thinning or receding. Receding or loss of gum tissue can be caused by gum disease, aggressive brushing, or teeth grinding. Enamel thinning can be the result of tooth grinding or acid reflux.

Over-the-counter desensitizing toothpaste can help temporarily relieve tooth sensitivity. For severe or persistent pain, see your dentist in Oakland, CA.

Gum Disease

Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums and surrounding tissues. If this infection isn’t treated, it can lead to tooth loss.

Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding or bruxism is a common dental problem. If you grind your teeth, it can wear down the enamel and cause your teeth to become sensitive. Your dentist in Oakland, CA, can help you with a mouth guard to protect your teeth while you sleep.

TMJ (Jaw Pain)

Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), also referred to as TMJ, is a common disorder that causes jaw pain and dysfunction. The condition is caused when jaw joints become inflamed or irritated. TMD is actually more common in women than in men.

Common symptoms include jaw pain, headaches, and earaches. You might also experience hearing problems, such as ringing in the ears (tinnitus) or pain when chewing. There are various treatments to treat the condition, but it is only recommended after examining you thoroughly.

Missing Teeth

Missing teeth can cause problems with chewing, speaking, and remaining confident in your smile. Dental implants are an option to replace missing teeth. A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is surgically anchored into the jaw. A dental crown can then be placed on the implant to replace an individual tooth. Dental implants can also be used to support a bridge or denture to replace multiple missing teeth.

To learn more about best practices for oral health, call Bay Area Dental at (510) 350-8187 or visit our dental office at 3300 Webster Street, #907, Oakland, CA 94609. Book your appointment with our dentist in Oakland, CA, to achieve the smile you have always wished for.