Common Dental Problems
Thanks to the development of faster and more efficient dental treatments, new pain-free dental techniques, and durable, aesthetically appealing dental materials, modern dentistry now offers a solution for virtually every type of dental problem. Patients of all ages can choose from a multitude of traditional or more innovative general and cosmetic dentistry treatments to improve the health and beauty of their smile.
Patients tend to put off dental visits for a variety of reasons, but one of the most common sources of frustration is the sheer multitude of dental treatment options available and the mystery that surrounds many of these new techniques and treatments. If you meet any of the criteria in the descriptions below, click on the accompanying dental procedure links to learn about possible treatments, and take this opportunity to find out more about the costs, benefits, and risks of each treatment.
Unattractive Smile
When teeth are too short or long, stained, chipped, misaligned, or overcrowded, a dentist can combine multiple cosmetic dentistry treatments to transform the smile, or the patient can invest in porcelain veneers. Veneers can be placed over the teeth to mask virtually any cosmetic problems.
Discolored, Stained, or Dull Teeth
Stubborn stains from coffee, tea, and cigarettes can be difficult to remove with brushing alone. Teeth whitening (in-office or take home) can help eliminate these more superficial stains and also address staining caused by aging or prescription medication use, such as tetracycline stains.
Chips and Minor Gaps
Many patients are troubled by minor cosmetic issues with their smile, including jagged or chipped teeth and noticeable gaps between teeth. Dental bonding is an ideal solution for these minor imperfections. With a tooth-colored bonding material, your dentist can mask these imperfections in just minutes.
Mild to Moderate Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is common among patients of all ages. Once a dentist removes the decay, they will generally recommend filling the cavity with a tooth-colored “white” filling or reinforcing the tooth with dental inlays or onlays.
Severely Cracked or Fractured Teeth
When a tooth becomes so damaged or decayed that a filling or inlay/onlay is no longer a sufficient solution, the tooth can be covered with a dental crown, or “cap.” Dental crowns are designed to stabilize badly damaged teeth; they can be made of metal or an attractive porcelain or ceramic material.
Missing Teeth
There are several viable treatment options for patients missing one or more teeth – dental implants and implant-supported dental bridges are the most modern, permanent solution, but patients can also opt for removable full and partial dentures.
Crooked, Misaligned Teeth
While more minor gaps and misalignment can be fixed with cosmetic dentistry solutions such as veneers or bonding, dentists generally recommend orthodontic treatment for significantly misaligned teeth. Patients can now opt for modern alternatives to traditional metal braces, including invisalign® “invisible” braces.
Gums Problems
Painful, swollen, or inflamed gums are often the first symptom of periodontal (gum) disease. Gum disease treatment can consist of everything from a deep cleaning for the mildest form of the disease, gingivitis, to surgical intervention for advanced gum disease, such as periodontitis.
Severe Tooth Pain
Tooth pain can signify a variety of dental problems. Aside from decay, one of the most common sources of tooth pain is an infection of the root canal. Root canal therapy involves cleaning out the infected tissue and filling the canal to stave off further infection.
Bruxism, Clenching, Grinding
Bruxism is a habit that affects around 8-10% of the population. It is broadly characterised by grinding of the teeth and clenching of the jaw that causes tooth wear and breakage, disorders of the jaw (pain and limited movement) and headaches. Bruxism occurs in both children and adults but is most common in 25-44 year olds. However, most people grind and/or clench their teeth occasionally to a certain degree.
TMJ Dissorders
Temporomandibular Joint Dissorders also known as TMJ, TMD or TMJD, is a condition affecting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) , which connects the mandible or the lower jaw to the temporal bone of the skull, which is located in front of the ear. The TMJ includes the muscles surrounding the jaw, blood vessels, bones and nerves. Every person have two TMJs, one located on each side of the jaw.
