Here at the Dental Surgery St Marys, we come across a multitude of patient concerns and symptoms. Listed below are a number of the common problems patients report and what could be causing them.
Sensitivity/Sharp Pain : One of the main concerns that patients present with, and can be caused by a number of different factors. A cavity in a tooth or multiple teeth, receded gums, and tooth grinding when sleeping are just some of the reasons you may be experiencing this. Generally speaking sharp and sensitive pain is easier to relieve compared to an aching pain (which is often a sign of a more serious condition).
Aching Pain: Aching pains are generally caused from more chronic conditions. Cavities involving nerve tissue, abscesses, and periodontal disease present as a continuous sensation that may arise spontaneously on its on with little relief felt from painkillers.
Yellow or stained teeth : Some of us naturally have teeth that are darker and more yellow in appearance, in the same way some have darker hair or eyes. This is not a reflection of how healthy your mouth and teeth are, however this can be changed if so desired, and your dentist can help you achieve this. Stained teeth can be prevented, and is often associated with dietary habits, smoking, and inadequate oral hygiene. Once stained a professional scale and clean is often needed to remove them from your teeth.
Loose teeth: Loose teeth that are moving can be very painful or at the very least very difficult to eat with. Often a sign of advanced gum disease or infection. A trip to the dentist is needed ASAP to try and retain these teeth.
Crooked teeth: Crooked teeth develop due a number of factors. Large teeth, smaller jaws, muscular dysfunction and habits like thumb sucking can all contribute to this issue. The causative agent will need to be identified as to ensure any orthodontic correction will remain.
Sores: sores in the mouth such as ulcers and cuts can happen when eating certain foods, and as long as these heal quickly (after a day or two) are nothing to worry about. However if there are sores than look unusual, are especially painful, large bumps, bleed or remain for a long time, see your dentist to rule out any serious condition.
We pride our clinic on being an advocate for preventative dental care, and most (if not all) the problems listed above can be prevented with ongoing oral hygiene at home and routine visits to the dentist.