Easy Fixes for 7 of the most Common Dental Problems

Okemos, Lansing, and East Lansing MI

Dental problems can occur even for those who are most avid about their oral care. Some conditions gradually advance while others can appear suddenly. However, when you have a problem with your mouth, it can disrupt your day or keep you from sleeping. Dr. Christine Tenaglia, an Okemos family dentist, shares on the blog today easy fixes for seven of the most common dental problems so that you can decide which treatments might be right for your case.

1. Cavities

The second most common disease for humans globally is cavities. Cavities occur when plaque builds up and destroys tooth enamel. Over time, the enamel erodes and slowly advances through multiple tooth layers until it reaches the pulp or tooth center. Dr. Tenaglia, a leading Lansing dentist, explains that preventing cavities is cheaper and easier than addressing them. By exercising proper oral hygiene – brushing twice and flossing once daily and visiting Dr. Tenaglia every six months for a checkup and cleaning, you can reduce bacteria’s impact.

2. Bad Breath

Bad breath occasionally happens to everyone, whether when waking up or after a meal infused with onion or garlic. However, persistent bad breath or halitosis could be the result of poor dental hygiene or an underlying dental health problem. Halitosis could result from deeper conditions requiring proper diagnosis from an East Lansing board-certified dentist. Scheduling a dental appointment with Dr. Tenaglia provides an opportunity to examine your oral condition, diagnose potential halitosis causes, and design a customized treatment plan.

3. Toothaches

Toothaches are often the result of an injury, cavities, or an infection. Cavities can weaken your tooth enamel and create a way for bacteria to reach the inner, more sensitive tooth areas, potentially causing a severely painful condition. Toothaches could also occur from an injury, like a cracked or broken tooth. No matter the condition, visit an Okemos dental office to uncover your toothache cause and receive treatment.

4. Mouth Sores

The most common mouth sores are fever blisters, canker sores, cold sores, and oral thrush or candidiasis. You can avoid canker sores by reducing mouth-irritating foods, like spicy or acidic dishes. Additionally, wind, sun, and stress may trigger fever blisters or cold sores. Our Lansing family dentist explains that limiting sugar consumption and maintaining regular oral care can help you avoid oral thrush. Typically, mouth sores disappear after a few weeks, but if it remains longer or the condition worsens, contact Tenaglia Smiles for an appointment.

5. Gum Disease

Periodontal disease happens when gum tissue becomes inflamed from oral bacteria. It can cause gum tenderness, discoloration, and bleeding during the early stages before progressing to periodontitis. Early gum disease is reversible with proper oral care and regular visits to our East Lansing dental office. Unfortunately, well-advanced gum disease can cause tooth loss, jawbone deterioration and could threaten your overall health. Dr. Tenaglia can help you manage and treat your gum disease to have better oral health.

6. Teeth Grinding

Clenching and grinding your teeth while sleeping or stressed is bruxism. Unfortunately, many patients are unaware of their condition until they experience symptoms, such as facial pain, sensitive teeth, headaches upon waking, or damaged teeth. In most cases, bruxism begins when a patient feels overwhelming stress. Therefore, our friendly Okemos dentist recommends reducing stress through healthy activities like walking, running, or biking. If self-remedies don’t help, Dr. Tenaglia can provide a custom-made mouthpiece to absorb the intense pressure exerted on your teeth as well as protect them from damage.

7. Sensitive Teeth

Sensitive teeth can occur in anyone at any age, and some people generally have more sensitive teeth than others. Unfortunately, tooth sensitivity could result from tooth enamel loss due to age, acidic food and drink consumption, gum disease, or a chipped or broken tooth. Our Lansing family dentist advises patients with sensitive teeth to exchange hard-bristled toothbrushes for a soft-bristled version and brush gently. Also, avoid sugary and acidic food and drinks, and choose teeth-friendly foods like yogurt and cheese.

Family Dentist in Okemos, Lansing, and East Lansing, MI

Your oral health is essential to your overall health and wellbeing. Unfortunately, at some time, you may face a common dental problem. When you do, feel free to contact Dr. Christine Tenaglia, an East Lansing top-rated dentist, for a consultation and treatment. Call Tenaglia Smiles at (517) 347-6733 or schedule an appointment online so we can help you restore your oral health today!