It takes work to keep your dental health in shape. You have to brush and floss regularly, and it’s always wise to schedule regular visits with your dentist. A check-up today can head off many common dental problems and keep you from having to endure the discomfort and expense of the dentist’s chair.
Sometimes, though, not even the best hygiene can prevent common dental problems. Time and age take their toll. Your teeth decay over the years, from years of use, and the next thing you know, it’s time for a root canal or other advanced procedure.
Still, good hygiene and regular checkups remain the best defense against common dental problems.
Common Dental Problems
We all know about the dreaded cavity. But what are some of the other most common dental problems? Hopefully, you’re able to keep these issues to a minimum and escape with only minor irritation and not a lot of expense.
But if not, plan on Lovett Dental Pasadena to be by your side, providing the skills and services you need to brighten your smile. Some of the most common dental problems include:
- Serious tooth decay
- Bad breath
- Toothaches
- Gum disease
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
It’s not on the list of common dental problems, but another condition that dentists are involved in helping diagnose or treat is cancer of the mouth or throat. Signs of that form of cancer often appear first on lips, gums, teeth, cheek, or jaw. The dentist can help evaluate the issues and direct you to the specialists you will need for treatment.
Frequency of Dental Problems
Unfortunately, dental issues are a painfully common part of life, driven in part by the fact that rates of routine dental care are still relatively low. Only about 64 percent of adults over the age of 18 obtain regular dental care, defined as a visit to the dentist sometime in the past six months. That percentage hasn’t changed in almost 10 years.
On the flip side, the better news is that, the younger generations are becoming more attentive to regular care. The percentage of children ages 2 to 17 who have seen the dentist at least once in the past six months has increased from 73 to 85 percent. More seniors are going more often, as well.
Overall, we are spending a dramatically higher amount on dental care. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, dental expenditures doubled to about $126 billion in 2017, from $62 billion in 2000. It’s important to catch common dental problems earlier in their cycle to help lower those costs.
Importance of Good Dental Care
Good dental hygiene is part and parcel of your overall physical health. Think about it — bacteria have an easy way into your body via your mouth. According to the Mayo Clinic, some studies establish a very tight correlation between dental and physical health.
According to Mayo, the studies “suggest that oral bacteria and the inflammation associated with a severe form of gum disease (periodontitis) might play a role in some diseases.” You can reduce the risk of this happening by addressing common dental problems before growing into something larger.
Bright Smiles at Lovett Dental Pasadena
Our schedules are packed. We get it. Sometimes going to the dentist for a cleaning or a check-up doesn’t always rank as a high priority. But never lose sight of the fact that preventive care makes the difference in addressing common dental problems. Count on Lovett Dental Pasadena to be there when those problems arise. Our staff is experienced in the full range of general dentistry services, including professional teeth cleaning, fillings and sealants, and dental crowns and bridges. We also can help when emergencies arise. Get in touch with us at 281-998-8800 for a consultative appointment today.
