Cavities, Gum Disease, and More: Understanding Common Dental Problems

Maintaining good oral health is truly fundamental to our overall well-being. It's what allows us to enjoy our meals, speak with ease, and share our smiles confidently, all of which significantly contribute to our quality of life. Unfortunately, many Australians encounter common dental issues like cavities, gum disease, and tooth sensitivity each year.

Here in Campbelltown, dental practices such as Bradbury Dental Surgery are here to help address these concerns right from the start. What's encouraging is that with the right care and the expertise of your Dental Campbelltown team, these problems can be managed and even prevented at any stage.

The Most Common Dental Concerns in Australia

1. Cavities (Tooth Decay)

Think of cavities, also known as dental caries, as tiny trouble spots that are incredibly common worldwide. According to the Australian Dental Association (ADA), more than 90% of adults experience dental caries at some point in their lifetime. These small cavities form on your teeth due to the action of bacteria on sugars and carbohydrates, which produce acids that erode enamel over time.

White spots on the enamel or sensitivity to hot and cold are the first signs of tooth decay. Cavities can lead to infection, pain, or even tooth loss if left untreated. Regular check-ups with your Dentist Campbelltown can detect these issues early and help preserve your smile.

2. Gum Disease

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is another very common dental concern. It often starts subtly, with an early phase called gingivitis. You might notice your gums becoming a bit red and swollen, and they might even bleed when you brush or floss. If we don't take action at this stage, it can progress to periodontitis, a more serious condition that damages the bone and tissues that support our teeth. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has highlighted that periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss globally, affecting around 23% of adults.

Poor oral hygiene, tobacco use, and certain health conditions like diabetes are the major risk factors for gum disease. Schedule regular cleaning appointments with your dental Campbelltown provider, which can help keep your gums healthy and strong.

3. Tooth Erosion

Tooth erosion is what happens when the enamel, that hard outer layer of our teeth, gets worn away by acids. These acids can come from the foods and drinks we consume, or even from medical conditions like acid reflux. The experts at the Cleveland Clinic remind us that once enamel is lost, our bodies can't rebuild it. However, the good news is that we can definitely take steps to minimise erosion by being mindful of our oral care and making some adjustments to our diet.

To prevent enamel erosion, avoid sugary soft drinks, rinse your mouth after consuming acidic food, and use fluoride toothpaste. Your local dentists in Camden might also recommend professional fluoride treatments for extra protection.

4. Cracked Teeth

Cracks in our teeth can occur for various reasons, such as chewing on hard foods, experiencing an injury to the mouth, or even grinding our teeth at night. Sometimes, a crack might not be immediately obvious, but if bacteria manage to get into the inner layers of the tooth, it can cause pain and further damage. Depending on how severe the crack is, your dentist has several treatment options, from simple bonding to more involved procedures like crowns.

Being mindful of what we bite down on, like avoiding really hard objects, and wearing a mouthguard during sports, can help reduce the risk of fractures. For those who grind their teeth (a condition called bruxism), a night splint from your dentist can offer significant protection.

5. Tooth Sensitivity

Dentists often refer to tooth sensitivity as dentin hypersensitivity. It's that uncomfortable or even sharp feeling you might get when eating or drinking hot, cold, or sweet things. This can be a sign that the enamel protecting your teeth has worn down, your gums have receded, or there might be some underlying decay. Healthline indicates that many adults experience this, and it's often linked to brushing too aggressively or having periodontal disease.

Switching to a desensitising toothpaste, using a soft-bristled toothbrush, and being gentle when you brush can often help. However, if the sensitivity continues, it's important to consult with your dental professional in Campbelltown to figure out the cause and get the right treatment.

6. Teeth Discolouration

Our teeth can become discoloured due to surface stains (extrinsic), changes within the tooth itself (intrinsic), or simply as part of the natural ageing process. Things like smoking, drinking coffee, and certain medications can contribute to these stains. Addressing discolouration might involve professional cleaning to remove surface stains, whitening treatments to lighten the overall shade, or even veneers to cover more significant discolouration.

7. Bruxism (Teeth Grinding)

Teeth grinding, or bruxism, often occurs during sleep and can cause headaches, jaw pain and damage to teeth. The Mayo Clinic points out that factors like stress, alcohol consumption, and even our genes can play a role in this habit. A custom-made night guard provided by your dentist can be very effective in protecting your teeth and reducing these symptoms.

Prevention Is Better Than a Cure

The great thing about most dental problems is that we can often prevent them by adopting a few key habits in our daily routine..

● Make it a habit to brush your teeth twice a day using a toothpaste that contains fluoride.

● Don't forget to floss once a day to remove plaque from between your teeth where your toothbrush can't easily reach.

● Try to reduce the amount of sugary and acidic foods and drinks you consume.

● If you have access to it, drinking tap water that contains fluoride can be beneficial.

● And importantly, make sure to schedule a visit with your dentist every 6 to 12 months for a check-up.

It's worth remembering that our oral health isn't just about our mouths; it's connected to our overall health, with links to conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and even stroke.

When to See a Dentist

It's important to schedule an appointment with your Dentist Campbelltown if you experience any of the following:

● Persistent tooth pain

● Bleeding gums

● Tooth sensitivity

● Visible decay or discolouration

● Mouth sores that don’t heal

● Cracked or loose teeth

At Bradbury Dental Surgery, we're committed to providing excellent dental care for all our patients in a welcoming environment. If you haven't seen a dentist in a while or if you are starting to feel any symptoms, book an appointment today. Early intervention saves the teeth and the pocket.

Let's keep Australia smiling, one healthy mouth at a time.