Common Dental Problems
Most people will experience at least one of these dental issues at some point in their lives. The good news is that the majority of common dental problems are highly preventable — and when they do occur, they are much easier to treat when caught early. Understanding what to look for can help you stay ahead of problems before they become serious.
Tooth Decay
Tooth decay — also called cavities or caries — is one of the most widespread chronic health conditions in the world, but it is largely preventable. Decay happens when bacteria in the mouth produce acids as a byproduct of digesting carbohydrates and sugars. Those acids gradually erode the mineral structure of the tooth, creating a cavity.
The earliest stages of decay often produce no noticeable symptoms, which is one of the most important reasons to keep up with regular dental exams. Once decay progresses far enough to cause pain or sensitivity, it typically requires more involved treatment. Caught early, a small cavity may be treated with a simple filling. Left alone, the same tooth may eventually need a root canal or extraction.
Prevention is straightforward: brush at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, limit sugary and acidic foods and beverages, and see your dentist twice a year.
Sensitive Teeth
Tooth sensitivity — that sharp, brief pain triggered by hot or cold foods, sweet or acidic drinks, or even cold air — is something many people experience but fewer people bring up with their dentist. It’s worth mentioning, because sensitivity is almost always a symptom of an underlying cause that can be identified and addressed.
Common causes include worn tooth enamel, exposed root surfaces from gum recession, cracked teeth, and tooth grinding. In some cases, sensitivity develops after whitening treatment or during orthodontic movement and resolves on its own. Depending on the cause, treatment might involve a desensitizing toothpaste, a fluoride application, a dental restoration, or a nightguard. If you’re experiencing sensitivity, let us know — there’s usually something we can do to help.
Gum Disease
Gum disease (periodontal disease) is an infection of the tissues that surround and support the teeth. It begins as gingivitis — characterized by red, swollen, or bleeding gums — and can progress to periodontitis, in which the bone and connective tissue supporting the teeth are progressively destroyed. In advanced stages, it is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults.
What makes gum disease particularly tricky is that it often progresses without significant pain, meaning many people don’t realize they have it until it’s already at an advanced stage. Warning signs include bleeding when brushing or flossing, persistent bad breath, gum recession, and loose teeth. Regular cleanings and exams allow us to catch gum disease early, when it’s most responsive to treatment.
Daily brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings are the foundation of gum disease prevention.
Bad Breath (Halitosis)
Occasional bad breath is normal — it can be caused by certain foods, dry mouth, or simply waking up in the morning. Persistent bad breath, however, is usually a sign of something worth looking into.
The most common dental cause of chronic bad breath is bacteria in the mouth — either from plaque buildup on the teeth and gums or from bacteria on the tongue. Untreated gum disease and tooth decay can also produce persistent unpleasant odors. In some cases, the source may be non-dental, such as dry mouth, acid reflux, or a sinus condition.
Thorough brushing (including the tongue), regular flossing, and staying hydrated are all helpful. If your bad breath persists despite good home care, let us know at your next visit — it’s a straightforward thing to evaluate.
Canker Sores
Canker sores (aphthous ulcers) are small, painful sores that develop on the soft tissues inside the mouth — the inner cheeks, lips, tongue, or floor of the mouth. They are not contagious, and unlike cold sores (which appear on the outside of the mouth), they are not caused by the herpes virus.
Most canker sores heal on their own within one to two weeks. Over-the-counter topical gels and antimicrobial rinses can help reduce discomfort and speed healing. If you develop sores that are unusually large, recur frequently, or don’t resolve within two weeks, let your dentist know — occasionally these require further evaluation
Bite Problems (Malocclusion)
Malocclusion refers to the misalignment of the teeth or jaws — what most people think of as a “bad bite.” This can include crowding, gaps, overbites, underbites, crossbites, and other alignment issues. Some cases are inherited; others develop as the result of habits like thumb sucking, early tooth loss, or jaw injury.
Beyond aesthetics, an unaddressed bite problem can cause uneven tooth wear, jaw pain, difficulty chewing, and increased difficulty keeping teeth clean. Orthodontic treatment — whether traditional braces or clear aligners — can correct most bite issues and make a meaningful difference in both function and appearance. If you or your child may have an alignment concern, a consultation with Dr. Ebersole is a good first step.