May 22, 2023

As a parent, you want your family to be healthy and happy, including having good oral health. Tremont Family Dentistry in IL is here to provide you with the knowledge and care to ensure your family's oral health is in top condition. To help you focus your efforts, we've compiled a list of the top dental issues families face today, so you can proactively prevent them from occurring.

mother and daughter practicing Tremont Family dentistry IL care

What Are the Most Common Dental Issues Families Face?

#1 Cavities

Cavities occur when bacteria in the mouth feed on sugar and produce acid that wears away the tooth enamel, creating a hole or cavity in the tooth.

Untreated cavities can significantly affect your family's dental health, leading to pain, infection, and even tooth loss. If left unaddressed, cavities can spread to the tooth's nerve and require more extensive treatments, such as root canals.  

Early intervention is crucial to maintaining healthy teeth and gums, and seeking dental care at the first indication of cavities can help prevent potential complications. In addition, practicing good dental hygiene habits such as brushing and flossing daily is essential in preserving optimal oral health.  

#2 Gum Disease  

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection caused by bacteria that can impact the tissues surrounding the teeth. The accumulation of plaque on teeth and gums can trigger inflammation and infection, leading to considerable damage if not promptly addressed.

Gingivitis is the initial stage of gum disease. Symptoms include swollen, red, and bleeding gums. Without treatment, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more advanced form of gum disease that can result in tooth loss and damage to the supportive bones around the teeth.  

It is crucial to seek treatment for gingivitis ASAP to prevent further complications and maintain optimal oral health.

Risk factors for gum disease include poor oral hygiene, smoking, diabetes, and certain medications.  

To prevent gum disease, it's important to practice good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. If you notice any symptoms of gum disease, it's important to seek treatment from a dentist or periodontist right away to prevent further damage.  

#3 Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity or dentin hypersensitivity is a common dental condition that causes discomfort or pain in one or more teeth when exposed to certain stimuli. Stimuli can include hot or cold foods and drinks, sweet or acidic foods, and cold air.

It occurs when the protective enamel on the tooth's surface wears away, exposing the underlying dentin layer. The dentin contains tiny tubules that connect to the tooth's nerve, which can cause pain or discomfort when stimulated.

Several factors can contribute to tooth sensitivity, including brushing too hard, using a hard-bristled toothbrush, gum recession, and tooth decay. In some cases, tooth sensitivity may also be a side effect of dental procedures, such as teeth whitening or dental restorations.

To prevent tooth sensitivity, use a soft-bristled toothbrush, brush gently and avoid acidic foods and drinks.

family in a Tremont Family dentistry IL dental office

Interested in Tremont Family Dentistry in IL?

If you're experiencing any of these dental issues or want to schedule a checkup for your family, let us know. At Smalltown Dental, our main objective is to make your dental experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible.

Our team of highly trained and experienced dental professionals is dedicated to helping you achieve optimal oral health by using the latest methods and technology available in the field. Contact us for an appointment.

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