5 Common Dental Problems

5 Common Dental ProblemsIf you’re experiencing bleeding gums, have been told you have halitosis or even weak enamel, then your oral hygiene may be in need of a general check-up to discover what dental issue you’re facing. Dr. Carol Jin in San Ramon believes in the benefits of regular dental checkups, and would like to share the top 5 most common dental problems in America:

  • Gum Disease
  • Abscessed Tooth
  • Enamel Degradation
  • Tooth Decay
  • TMJ Or Jaw Popping

Healthy Gums Start At The Surface

Gum disease (gingivitis), is one of the leading causes of tooth decay in adults. Symptoms of gingivitis include inflamed gums that may bleed when you brush or floss. Gingivitis occurs when food particles mix with saliva causing increased bacteria to manifest as plaque, which clings to your enamel. Plaque becomes tartar, and once teeth have tartar covering their enamel, only a dental cleaning can properly remove the calcified bacteria. Tartar build-up can affect the bone below the gum, causing periodontitis, which can lead to eventual tooth loss.

Root Infections Are No Fun

An abscessed tooth is also known as a root infection is usually painful, but sometimes doesn’t hurt, and can go unnoticed for a considerable amount of time. When root infections continue to cause tooth decay, a root canal may be the only way to alleviate this infection. Nipping tooth decay early before it infects the root of your tooth is the best defense against an abscessed tooth or having to receive a root canal.

Enamel Wear & Tooth Decay

Even though enamel is one of the toughest areas of the human body, it’s still prone to degrade over time, especially if habits include sugary soft drinks, starchy foods, grinding teeth, chewing hard objects, chewing tobacco, or not flossing properly. When enamel becomes too thin, you may begin to notice sensitivity to temperatures or acids that can cause severe jolts of pain. Teeth may also begin to turn yellow, chip, or cave in on the surface, known as “cupping.” Losing enamel increases the ability of cavities to grow, which can lead to further infections and decay.

Jaw Popping Symptoms Can Be Alleviated

If the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) has been injured, it can cause specific types of pain. TMJ syndrome can occur if teeth have been injured or if you grind your teeth, have poor posture, stress, or arthritis. TMJ syndrome can cause a number of symptoms including headaches, earaches, jaw popping, and more. Dr. Carol Jin’s team are trained to check for TMJ syndrome and can provide proper homecare and further medical options, including surgery in some severe cases.

Schedule Your Next Dental Appointment Today

For general and cosmetic dental services in San Ramon, contact Dr. Carol Jin’s office today. Annual dental check-ups are important and can help you avoid costly dental procedures in the future. Call us to learn more about the general and cosmetic dental services we offer for you and your family.

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