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7 Common Dental Problems You Might Not Be Aware Of (But Should Be)

Dental health isn’t just about brushing and flossing — it’s about staying ahead of issues that can sneak up on you. While most of us are familiar with cavities and gum disease, there are plenty of other dental problems that can arise unexpectedly. Some are more common than you might think, and many can be easily avoided or treated if caught early. Let’s dive into some of these lesser-known dental issues that you might not be aware of, but should definitely keep an eye on.

1. Tooth Sensitivity – It’s Not Just the Cold!

Ever feel that sharp pain when you take a sip of something hot or cold? It’s often dismissed as a minor issue, but tooth sensitivity can be a sign of something more serious, so you should definitely see one of the available dentists in Mandurah if you’re experiencing this. This discomfort happens when the tooth’s protective enamel wears away, exposing the softer tissue underneath, known as the dentin. The dentin contains tiny nerve endings, which is why the pain can be so intense.

What causes tooth sensitivity? It could be due to:

  • Gum recession – as your gums recede, they expose more of your tooth, making it more sensitive.
  • Tooth grinding (bruxism) – often occurs at night, wearing down enamel over time.
  • Acidic foods and drinks – citrus fruits, soda, and vinegar can erode enamel if consumed too often.

The good news? There are desensitising toothpastes and treatments available that can help manage the discomfort. It’s also a good idea to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid aggressive brushing.

2. Tooth Grinding – More Than Just a Nighttime Issue

Tooth grinding, or bruxism, is more common than many people realise. While it’s often associated with stress or anxiety, it can happen during the day as well. Many people grind their teeth unconsciously while focused on work or other tasks. It can lead to a number of problems, including:

  • Worn-down teeth – persistent grinding can wear away the enamel, leading to tooth sensitivity and increased risk of decay.
  • Jaw pain – grinding puts pressure on your jaw muscles, which can result in discomfort or even TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder.
  • Headaches – clenching and grinding can also cause tension headaches, especially in the morning.

The good news? A dentist can fit you with a custom mouthguard to protect your teeth at night. Stress management techniques, like yoga or deep breathing, can also help reduce the urge to grind.

3. Dry Mouth – It’s More Than Just an Annoyance

A dry mouth, or xerostomia, is a condition where you don’t produce enough saliva to keep your mouth moist. Saliva is essential for breaking down food, preventing tooth decay, and keeping your mouth clean. Without it, you’re more at risk of:

  • Tooth decay – reduced saliva increases the likelihood of cavities forming.
  • Gum disease – dry mouth can lead to plaque buildup and inflammation of the gums.
  • Bad breath – the lack of moisture can cause bacteria to build up in your mouth, resulting in persistent bad breath.

Several factors can contribute to dry mouth, including medications, dehydration, and health conditions like diabetes. If you experience dry mouth regularly, consider using saliva substitutes, drinking plenty of water, and chewing sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production.

4. Overbites and Underbites – More Than Just a Cosmetic Concern

When your teeth don’t align properly, it’s not just about how you look in photos. Overbites and underbites can actually cause serious dental issues over time. These misalignments happen when your upper and lower teeth don’t fit together properly, leading to:

  • Jaw pain – uneven bite pressure can lead to TMJ issues and discomfort.
  • Tooth wear – misaligned teeth can cause uneven wear, leading to cracks, chips, or excessive enamel loss.
  • Difficulty chewing – an improper bite can make eating difficult and less efficient, leading to digestive issues.

Thankfully, orthodontics can help correct these misalignments. Braces or clear aligners can straighten your teeth and improve your bite, helping to prevent these long-term problems.

5. Cavities Between Teeth – The Silent Dangers

When we think of cavities, we typically think of the surface of the teeth. However, cavities can form in between your teeth where your toothbrush can’t always reach. These hidden cavities are often harder to spot but can cause serious damage if left untreated. Early signs might include:

  • Tooth sensitivity – particularly when eating sweet or cold foods.
  • Pain when chewing – especially when pressure is applied to the affected tooth.
  • Visible holes – cavities between the teeth can eventually cause visible pits or holes, but this often happens late in the process.

To prevent cavities between your teeth, make sure you floss daily and get regular dental check-ups. Flossing helps remove plaque and food particles that your toothbrush can miss, ensuring a cleaner, healthier smile.

6. Gum Recession – Not Just for Older Adults

Gum recession is a gradual process where the gums pull away from the teeth, exposing more of the tooth’s root. While it’s more common in older adults, gum recession can affect anyone, especially if you:

  • Brush too hard – aggressive brushing can wear away gum tissue.
  • Suffer from gum disease – untreated gum disease can lead to gum recession as the tissues become weakened.
  • Experience tooth grinding – as mentioned earlier, grinding can put pressure on your gums, leading to recession.

Gum recession can lead to tooth sensitivity and, in severe cases, tooth loss. The best way to protect your gums is to brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and maintain good oral hygiene.

7. Mouth Sores – They’re More Common Than You Think

Mouth sores, like canker sores or cold sores, are not just irritating, they can also affect your ability to eat and speak comfortably. While cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus and are often recurring, canker sores are non-contagious and can appear for a variety of reasons, such as:

  • Stress – anxiety and tension can trigger mouth sores.
  • Certain foods – acidic foods like tomatoes and citrus fruits can irritate the mouth lining, leading to sores.
  • Hormonal changes – some people experience mouth sores during their menstrual cycle.

Most mouth sores heal on their own within a week or two, but if you get them frequently, you might want to talk to your dentist to rule out underlying causes.

Keeping Your Smile Healthy and Bright

Many of these dental issues are easily preventable or treatable with the right care and attention. By staying on top of your oral hygiene, managing stress, and seeking professional help when needed, you can avoid or address these common dental problems. Regular dental visits are key to catching any early signs of issues, so don’t skip your routine check-ups. A healthy mouth is a happy mouth, and the effort you put in now will pay off in the long run.

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