Common Dental Problems

    LAS VEGAS, NV, February 29, 2012 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Dental problems are not uncommon. Everyone's teeth are vulnerable to problematic conditions, although you can protect your oral health by sticking to a good oral hygiene routine. If you are concerned about a dental issue, you should consult an experienced dentist.

Cavities. Formed by the activity of bacteria in your mouth, cavities are an irreversible stage of tooth decay. Cavities are usually treated with metal or tooth-colored fillings. Advanced cavities may require a tooth crown or a root canal.

Bacteria are always present in our mouths. The bacteria on your teeth turn sugary and starchy food debris into acid. The bacteria combine with the acid and food debris to form plaque, especially along the gumline. The acidic content of plaque can eat away at your tooth enamel, eventually forming the decayed hole that is a cavity.

To prevent the common dental problem of cavities, proper oral hygiene is important. Brushing twice a day and flossing once a day reduces plaque on your teeth. Plaque is also removed during a teeth cleaning at your dentist's office.

Gum Disease. Gum disease is the leading cause of adult tooth loss. Gum disease is caused by infection and inflammation of the gums. The infection deteriorates the gums, ligaments, and bone supporting your teeth.

Gum disease is initially caused by plaque. Untreated plaque progresses into hardened tartar, and the plaque and tartar infect your gums. Smoking and poor oral hygiene are major risk factors for gum disease.

If you experience any of the following signs and symptoms, you should consult a dentist about whether you have gum disease:

- Gums that bleed easily
- Red or reddish-purple gums
- Gum recession
- Swollen, tender gums
- Chronic bad breath
- Loose teeth

Missing teeth. It is not at all uncommon to have a missing tooth. Gum disease and mouth injury are major causes of tooth loss in adults. Not only may a missing tooth mar the appearance of your smile, it can cause other teeth to tilt and shift into crookedness, and you may have difficulty speaking and chewing.

Options for replacing missing teeth include:
- Dental implants
- Dentures or partial dentures
- Dental bridge

The right tooth replacement option for you may depend on factors such as affordability, durability and longevity of the tooth replacement.

Yellow teeth. Anyone is susceptible to stained, dingy teeth. Tooth stains can stem from hereditary factors, but are most often caused by the food and beverages we consume, as well as smoking and certain medications.

To prevent yellow teeth, avoid drinking coffee and tea throughout the day. Rinse your mouth or brush your teeth after drinking these beverages, as well as wine and fruit juices.

If you are dissatisfied with the appearance of yellow teeth, you may want to ask your cosmetic dentist about tooth whitening. There are many options available for brightening your smile, including in-office tooth whitenings and take-home kits.

If you live in Nevada and would like to lean more about how dentistry can address common dental problems, please visit the website of the experienced Las Vegas cosmetic dentists at Drs. Bryson & Margio Dentistry at www.drsbrysonandmargio.com.

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