Common Teeth Issues to Watch For!

Dental health can be complicated to understand at times. There is a lot that could go wrong in addition to just cavities. There are also a lot of things that lead up to a full-blown cavity that can be important to catch early. Access Dental and Dentures is the best dentist in Southern Missouri and we have all the information and tips you need to keep your mouth as healthy as possible. Keep reading to learn more! 

Tooth Sensitivity

This could be one of the first signs that something is going wrong with your dental health. Sensitivity often means that something in your routine or lifestyle is eroding the enamel on your teeth and making them more sensitive to extreme temperatures. Some things that could cause sensitivity could include:

• Too-Hard Toothbrush
• Harsh Teeth Whitening Products
• Not Flossing Enough
• Acidic Foods & Drinks
• Grinding Teeth

Weak Spots

As bacteria and other harmful substances sit on the surface of your teeth, the protective layer of enamel on your teeth starts to erode. This creates a weak spot on the tooth that can quickly become a cavity without proper care. Using toothpaste that contains fluoride can help strengthen these areas and help prevent further issues from developing. The best way to avoid weak spots is by practicing active prevention. Try to avoid sugary drinks, overly acidic foods, and sweets. If you do indulge, make sure to brush your teeth thoroughly to prevent the sugar and acid from sitting on your teeth and causing damage.

Plaque

This is one of the first issues that can arise when your teeth aren't properly and regularly cleaned. Plaque is a colorless, sticky bacterial substance that grows on nearly every surface of the teeth. If plaque is allowed to build up, then the acidic biofilm can start to cause tooth decay and gum sensitivity. Thankfully, plaque is fairly manageable with flossing and twice-a-day brushing.

Tartar

Tartar occurs in the mouth when plaque is not regularly removed and it starts to calcify. It becomes a hardened, yellow substance on the teeth and can be damaging to oral health. Additional plaque can build up on the tartar, making the calcifications grow larger over time. Tartar buildup can cause bad breath, receding gums, and inflammation. It's important to regularly brush your teeth to remove plaque and prevent tartar buildup. If tartar does start to accumulate on your teeth, schedule an appointment with your local dentist to have it professionally removed.

Cavities

Cavities occur when tooth decay becomes so advanced that it has eaten through multiple layers of the tooth's structure. Once the enamel layer has eroded and bacteria reach the inner areas of the tooth, a deep cleaning and dental filling is likely. In more advanced cases, a root canal or tooth extraction may be necessary.

Visit the Dentist

Keep your teeth and the rest of your mouth as healthy as possible by regularly visiting the dentist office and making sure to follow a good dental hygiene routine on a daily basis. Watch out for sensitivity, plaque build-up, tartar, and weak spots that could become cavities. Access Dental and Dentures is here for you no matter the dental issue that comes up. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!

We want to be your dentist because your family deserves a great smile! 

1-877-DENTIST

Visit our Website
Like us on Facebook

Follow us on Twitter

Connect with us on LinkedIn