Top Dental Problems in the U.S. and the Recommended Solutions

Which state has the best oral health in 2019? According to Toothbrush.org, it’s not California. The Golden State holds a position at the bottom half of the rankings (34th out of 50), while Minnesota claims the top spot for having the best oral health in the country. Arkansas has the worst, preceded by Louisiana, Montana, Mississippi, and West Virginia.

While most Americans agree that routine dental checkups are synonymous with superb oral health, it is not a priority in many households. The American Dental Association (ADA) shares that although 77 percent of adults plan on visiting the dentist in 2019, only about one-third follows through. Americans face several oral health concerns as a result.

Let’s discuss the top seven dental problems most people face.

1. Bad Breath

Over 40 million men and women in the U.S. have bad breath. Also known as halitosis, it can make talking, laughing, and the general act of opening your mouth an uncomfortable experience. The International Journal of Oral Science notes that 85 percent of people with chronic bad breath have an underlying dental condition to blame, such as dry mouth and bacteria on the tongue.

Daily brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash helps mask an unpleasant breath. But good oral hygiene cannot remedy halitosis if a dental problem is present. If you have persistent bad breath, schedule an appointment with a reputable dentist. Sometimes, only professional dental cleaning can eliminate odor-causing bacteria in the mouth. At 24/7 Local Dentist, we also recommend replacing faulty tooth implants, which are breeding grounds for bacteria. Read A Comprehensive Guide to Dental Implant Care to learn about prevention.

2. Tooth Decay and Cavities

Tooth decay, also known as cavities, is one of the most prevalent diseases in the United States. A cavity occurs when plaque combines with the sugars and starches in the food you eat. The combination produces acids that attack tooth enamel, leading to tooth loss when left untreated. Dental fillings help restore the normal function and shape of decaying teeth. If the soft tissue inside the root canal becomes inflamed, a root canal procedure will be necessary.

3. Gum (Periodontal) Disease

Gum disease manifests in the swollenness, soreness, and bleeding of the gums surrounding your teeth. This progressive disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. Some scientific studies even infer a possible link between periodontal disease and heart disease.

A dentist may refer you to a gum specialist (periodontist) if he or she suspects unusual inflammation and bleeding of the gums. The disease can destroy your smile by pulling away gums from your teeth, leaving pockets that collect odor-causing bacteria. Prescribed medication helps treat and prevent further complications like tooth loss and gum abscess.

4. Missing Tooth or Teeth

The dental problems mentioned above, including neglected tooth decay and gum disease, are common causes of missing teeth. In hindsight, some men and women are born without certain pearly whites—a genetic condition called congenitally missing teeth.

There are four ways to replace missing teeth:

• Dentures and Partials. These removable prostheses are ideal for people who have lost most or all of their teeth. Some denture designs rely on clasping onto teeth or dental implants. With a partial denture, there is no need to file down your teeth. This option is the most economical.
• Dental bridges. Bridges are a good option when there are teeth on either side of a missing tooth. Dental bridges are a permanent solution that remains cemented in the mouth.
• Dental Implants. These surgical components feel and act like natural teeth when talking, smiling, or chewing. An implant replaces the original root of the missing tooth and heals in the bone for several months.
• Teeth in a Day. The All-on-4 treatment concept is a prosthodontic procedure that achieves a permanent, screw-retained, same-day replacement for the whole upper and lower set of teeth. 24/7 Local Dentist specializes in cosmetic dentistry and Permanent Teeth in 1 Day in California.

5. Dental Emergencies

Whether you play sports or enjoy cheering from the sidelines, accidents can happen to you. For example, getting hit by a basketball in the face can crack or knock out a tooth or two. Having a dental emergency requires an urgent trip to the dentist since they can be excruciating.

Our team of experts handles all sorts of dental emergencies that need immediate medical attention. From an unbearable toothache to a chipped our knocked out tooth, we can address your specific dental crisis with cutting-edge technologies and techniques.

6. Unattractive Smile

Technically, an unattractive smile is not a dental problem. It is, however, one of the top reasons people seek dental treatment. Being unhappy with your smile can lower your self-confidence. But thanks to today’s medical advancements, anyone can achieve a picture-perfect smile. Whether you need teeth whitening, full mouth reconstruction, or other cosmetic dentistry work, we can give you the winning smile of your dreams.

7. Oral Cancer

Cancer of the mouth is a serious and fatal disease that affects millions of people. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, one person in the United States dies every hour from oral cancer. Fortunately, the condition is often curable if diagnosed and treated in its early stages.

Prevention is always better than searching for a cure. Avoid tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption to reduce your chances of oral cancer. Infection with human papillomavirus (HPV)—a sexually transmitted disease—also increases your risk.

Symptoms of oral cancer are persistent sores, lumps, or rough areas in the mouth. You may also experience changes in your bite, as well as difficulties moving your tongue and jaw. Routine visits to the dentist are vital to catching oral cancer early. Treatment will vary depending on which cancer center you choose to entrust with your care.

Conclusion

If you ever ask yourself the question “How did they get such perfect teeth?” The answer is simple: they took their oral health and hygiene seriously. Ranking 34th in a country with 50 states means many Californians suffer from dental problems. With the strain our teeth get from constant chewing and grinding, they are prone to eventual wear and tear. Caring for them requires brushing after every meal, flossing before bedtime, visiting your dentist, and staying away from harmful snacks and drinks.

As a final word, never be complacent just because you follow meticulous oral hygiene practices. Even people with the brightest, most stunning smiles can encounter common dental problems. If you are looking for an authority in cosmetic dentistry, call (833) 220-2448 to schedule an appointment with 24/7 Local Dentist. We service all of Southern California and offer flexible payment plans.