According to a recent study by the Australian Institute of Health & Welfare some 64% of people aged 5 and over had cause to visit the dentist in the previous year. That equates to around 15 million patients.
For many their reason to visit the dentist was for a routine check-up and clean.
However for a significant proportion of those 15 million people their reason to visit the dentist was because of some kind of pain or discomfort they were experiencing.
Outlined below are five of the main dental problems most dentists see when it comes to these types of dental appointments.
Most of the time these conditions can be prevented by brushing twice daily, regular flossing and following a healthy diet.
1. Tooth Decay
The most common cause for toothache in both children and adults is tooth decay. It occurs as a result of plaque in the mouth mixing with sugar or starch. This produces an acid which starts to attack the tooth enamel.
If left untreated tooth decay will continue to get bigger and will eventually result in pain.
The more layers of tooth that get decayed the worse the damage.
2. Periodontal Disease
This is more commonly known as gum disease. It is a condition where the gums that surround your teeth become infected.
This is characterised by sore, swollen red gums that often bleed.
Gum disease is usually a result of not following a good oral care routine at home.
3. Broken Or Chipped Tooth
Even if you maintain an excellent daily oral health care routine accidents can unfortunately happen.
This is particularly true if you play a contact sport which is why you should always wear a mouthguard.
Sometimes you may break or chip a tooth in the most unremarkable of circumstances. When this occurs it can be very painful. Particularly when the fracture or break goes through to the nerve of the tooth.
To strengthen the enamel of your teeth you should eat plenty of dark leafy vegetables, dairy and protein-rich foods. You should also avoid fizzy drinks, juice, lollies and chocolate.
If a chipped or broken tooth occurs it is important to see the dentist straight away.
4. Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity can occur when consuming hot or cold food and drinks and can sometimes be experienced from inhaling cold air.
Many people who visit the dentist suffer from sensitive teeth.
Tooth sensitivity can occur when the enamel that protects our teeth gets thinner. It can also happen as a result of gum recession as well. This exposes the underlying surface – the dentin – and therefore reduces the levels of protection the enamel and gums give to the tooth and its root.
Tooth sensitivity can usually be managed through fluoride and specialised toothpastes as well as regular dental visits.
5. Bad Breath
People find bad breath, or halitosis, the most embarrassing of all dental conditions.
It is safe to say halitosis afflicts everyone at least once during the course of their life.
There are several things you can do to combat bad breath on a daily basis.
Need To Visit The Dentist?
If you are suffering from any of these ailments please call Jess immediately on 07 5443 2800.
It is important you get your condition reviewed and treated to avoid it getting worse.
If you need to make an emergency appointment we guarantee you will be seen on the same day if you call in the morning.
If you are reading this outside of our normal practice hours please fill out this Request An Appointment form and we will get back to you early the next working day.
