You may not think about it, but having healthy teeth and gums is crucial for keeping up with your overall health. Since practically everything that nourishes and sustains your body has to enter through the mouth, you must make regular checkups with a dentist, floss once per day, and brush your teeth twice a day. Additionally, be on the lookout for common dental issues and get them fixed as soon as possible.

What Are Some of the Most Common Dental Problems?

1. Tooth Decay

Tooth decay, also known as a cavity, is caused by bacteria and food particles, such as sugars and starches, that bond to form plaque. This substance sticks to your teeth and slowly dissolves the enamel, eventually forming a hole through the tissues of your teeth.

2. Gum Disease

Also called periodontal disease, this is an infection in the gum tissue that usually starts with gingivitis, bad breath, and sore, swollen gums. Additionally, this condition is known to cause tooth loss in adults. People who smoke and have diabetes are at a higher risk for gum disease, and healthcare professionals are also looking into a possible connection with heart disease.

3. Root Infection

If your tooth is cracked or you have a deep cavity, bacteria can create an infection in the root of the tooth. When it gets to this point, you'll likely need a root canal to remove the bacteria and infected tissue and pack the tooth with a solid material to prevent bacteria from re-entering. Catching cavities before they get too severe or, better yet, catching plaque buildup before cavities form, is a reliable way to avoid this issue.

4. Enamel Erosion

Tooth enamel can become corroded over time, taking on a discolored, rounded appearance. Sugary drinks and foods are the most common culprits behind this issue, as their active ingredients erode and stain your tooth enamel. Brushing aggressively with too hard of a toothbrush can also damage the enamel, so talk to your dentist about finding the right fit for your teeth.

5. Halitosis

In dental terminology, halitosis is having persistent bad breath. Mouthwash will usually cover this issue, and good dental hygiene practices can reduce its effects. Additionally, a trip to the dentist can determine if any underlying dental problems need to be addressed.

Flossing and brushing daily will generally keep your teeth healthy, but regular checkups will make sure they stay that way. Check out Anderson Dental Group in Mooresville and Salisbury, NC, for compassionate professionals who are dedicated to preserving good dental health in a comfortable environment. Call their Mooresville location at (704) 663-3300 or their Salisbury location at (704) 636-3611 to schedule an appointment. You can also visit their website to find out more about their range of dental services.