4 Common Dental Health Problems Faced by Americans

Good oral hygiene helps prevent cavities and gum disease, but dental issues can still arise unexpectedly. While these concerns are a natural part of life, recognizing them early and knowing how to address them is key to maintaining a healthy, confident smile. 

Wildflower Dental is proud to be your trusted dental office in Sun City, Arizona, and the surrounding areas. We are committed to informing and empowering our patients about their oral health. Here’s what you need to know about common oral health problems Americans face. 

1. Tooth decay

According to the CDC, at least one in five adults aged 20-64 years has at least one untreated cavity. You may have a cavity if you spot dark holes in your tooth or you experience pain or sensitivity when eating. 

Tooth decay occurs when dental plaque is left to thrive in the mouth. Plaque has harmful bacteria, which secrete acidic substances that erode the enamel over time. Enamel erosion causes small holes to develop (cavities) and continue progressing without proper treatment. Depending on their severity, cavities are treatable with fillings, crowns, or root canals.

Prevention is the best way to keep your teeth decay-free. Brush and floss your teeth diligently, avoid sugary foods, and visit your dentist twice annually for check-ups and cleanings. 

 2. Gum disease

Gum or periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among Americans. Like tooth decay, gum disease develops because of poor oral hygiene. Gingivitis is the earliest form of gum disease and causes gums to swell or bleed easily. You may also experience bad breath. 

Because gum disease is painless, it can progress without knowing you have it. Untreated gum disease can cause receded gums and tooth loss. 

Gum disease is easily treatable with deep teeth cleaning (scaling and root planing). However, if your gums are receded, Dr. Jae Cho can restore your healthy gums with the Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST). Unlike traditional grafting, PST repairs receded gums without sutures, scalpels, or grafts. 

Preventive care is the best way to keep your gums healthy. Brush and floss your teeth and visit your dentist regularly. 

   3. Tooth loss

Injuries, untreated tooth decay, and gum disease can cause tooth loss. Missing teeth affect your oral function, confidence, and aesthetics. Prolonged tooth loss causes bone degradation, bite misalignment, and TMJ-related pain. 

Our office recommends dental implants as the leading choice for replacing teeth, although bridges are available as an alternative. Our teeth replacements look and feel like natural teeth and last many years with good care. 

Tooth loss is common in seniors, but it can affect anyone. Brush and floss your natural teeth to keep your natural teeth healthy. Also, observe good nutrition and wear a mouthguard to protect your smile against sports injuries and teeth grinding.

 4. Tooth Sensitivity

Enamel erosion, dental infection, cavities, cracks, etc., are common reasons you may experience tooth sensitivity. Sensitive teeth can make cold air and hot and cold foods uncomfortable. Our dentist provides effective sensitive teeth depending on the root cause.

Schedule an appointment today!

We aim to maintain your excellent oral health with routine exams, cleanings, and patient education. If you have concerns or questions about oral health, call (623) 400-2117 and reserve an appointment with Wildflower Dental.

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