Evasive Action: 3 Common But Preventable Oral Health Problems

Did you know that the American Dental Association recommends visiting your dentist every six months for a routine checkup and cleaning? Consistent dental exams combined with a regular at-home dental hygiene routine can go a long way towards protecting and preserving your smile.

However, many people assume that they don’t need a checkup if they haven’t noticed any immediate issues. Continue reading to learn about 3 concerns that can develop if you skip standard visits!

Issue #1: Cavities

Your mouth is full of bacteria just waiting for an opportunity to penetrate your teeth to cause problems. Unfortunately, if they are able to thrive, they start to produce acids that can wear through the hard outer shell, forming sections of decay that put your dental health at risk.

Caries are contagious and can travel from one tooth to another or even spread to your gums or jawbone if left untreated. Brushing at home helps prevent them, but it’s possible to have tooth decay in areas that are hard to see, like between teeth or behind your molars, and not know about it. Thankfully, your dentist has the experience and advanced technology to quickly identify cavities and provide suitable treatments, like tooth-colored fillings.

Issue #2: Gum Disease

Many people only consider their teeth when they think of their dental health, but connective tissues are equally important. For instance, were you aware that periodontitis (advanced gum disease) is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults? Your pearly whites rely on your gums to remain in place, so it’s essential that you care for them correctly.

If you don’t already, you should brush and floss your teeth thoroughly (but gently) twice daily to remove plaque and bacteria that contribute to periodontal problems. You should also visit your dentist for a professional cleaning so they can ensure you haven’t developed any symptoms of early gum disease, which can be hard to catch on your own at home.

Issue #3: Injured Enamel

Enamel is the hardest substance produced by the human body and serves as a natural shield that protects your teeth from acid damage and harmful bacteria that live in your mouth. Although it’s incredibly resilient, it’s not entirely invincible: you can unfortunately chip or crack your teeth if you grind them or sustain a blow to the face, which is common among athletes.

You might even have hairline fractures that are nearly invisible to the naked eye, or you might have injured roots beneath the surface of your gums that you can’t see. Your dentist will take X-rays at least once annually to ensure there are no problems lurking beneath your connective tissues.

Not only that, but investing in regular checkups can safeguard your smile and is usually less costly than paying for expensive repairs after you’ve already developed an issue!

About the Practice

At Harris Parkway Dental Care, patients benefit from dedicated dentists who have been helping people enhance their dental health since 1980! They collaborate to provide a comprehensive menu of world-class services tailored to meet your individual needs, including basic preventive care. Whether you need a regular checkup and cleaning or to have a cavity filled, they can help! You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (817) 423-2223.