Dental conditions are never fun, but most of them are highly preventable. Learning about prevailing oral problems, risk factors, and symptoms can help prevent them and get the needed treatment on time. This blog lists five common dental conditions and tooth disorders in the United States.

Studies suggest that most people in the USA suffer from dental conditions because of carelessness or may be due to monetary limitations.

Did you know oral conditions are the fourth most expensive to treat? Given that, most people can’t afford their treatment. A single dentist visit can cost you hundreds of dollars. 

But dental patient financing makes expensive oral treatment affordable!

However, many oral ailments are highly preventive. Dental hygiene, regular visits, knowing the common dental conditions and tooth disorders can help a long way in prevention. 

We have listed below the most prevalent yet preventable dental conditions. Let’s get started-

Most Common Dental Conditions and Tooth Diseases in the United States

Here, we have listed the most common dental conditions with the common causes and effective measures to prevent them.

1. Bad Breath- Every individual suffers from bad breath (also known as halitosis) at some point in life. Although it is a common oral condition and may cause distress and negatively impact your quality of life.

Causes:

• poor dental hygiene
• foods (such as garlic and onion) 
• gum diseases
• dry mouth
• tonsillitis
• other health conditions

Preventive Measures:

• brushing and flossing
• use fluoridated toothpaste
• stay hydrated
• use alcohol-free mouthwash
• regular dental visits

2. Cavities- Did you know cavities or dental decay is one of the world’s most common dental problems? Usually, cavities occur without symptoms. So, regular dental checkups are necessary to know if you have dental decay so you get early treatment.

Causes:

• plaque formation
• growth of oral bacteria
• sugary or acidic foods and drinks
• poor oral hygiene routine
• eating disorders

Preventive Measures:

• brush with fluoride toothpaste
• rinse your mouth after every meal
• use a mouth rinse with fluoride
• eat healthy foods such as fresh fruits, unsweetened coffee, and sugar-free gums

3. Gum Diseases- Studies suggest 47.2% of adults in America (aged 30 and above) have some form of gum or periodontal disease. If not treated on time, it may lead to bleeding gums and even tooth loss.

Causes:

• plaque buildup
• tobacco intake
• hormonal shifts
• dry mouth
• vitamin C deficiency  
• crooked teeth
• genetics

Preventive Measures:

• oral care routine
• rinse your mouth right after you eat
• use antibacterial mouth rinses
• quit smoking
• eat a well-balanced diet
• see your dentist regularly

4. Tooth Sensitivity- Tooth sensitivity is common among people of all ages, especially young adults. People dealing with the condition feel sudden pain or discomfort in response to certain triggers (cold/hot/acidic foods and beverages). You may have sensitive teeth for a few weeks or the condition may be chronic. Besides, the triggers and symptoms may come and go for no clear reasons.

Causes:

• Erosion of tooth enamel due to excessive intake of citric foods or acidic drinks
• brushing aggressively
• teeth grinding
• conditions like acid reflux
• gum recession

Preventive Measures:

• adopting good dental practices
• use soft toothbrush
• use alcohol-free mouthwash
• avoid acidic foods and drinks
• avoid too hot or cold foods and beverages

5. Mouth Sores– Mouth ulcers or sores are painful and small lesions. You can develop due to certain triggers like mouth injury, food sensitivities, harsh brushing, braces, and allergies. This dental condition takes one to two weeks to heal completely. However, it may be a cause of serious health conditions if the problem persists.

Causes:

There are no certain causes why one may get mouth sores. Eating citric or sugary foods can lead to mouth ulcers. Also, lack of vitamin B-12, zinc, and iron can result in ulcers.

Preventive Measures:

• rinse your mouth with saltwater
• eat nutritious diet
• drink chamomile tea
• take daily multivitamin supplements
• don’t talk while eating
• use soft bristle toothbrushes

These are the most prevailing but preventive dental conditions in the United States. Although good dental practices can help prevent common dental disorders, you may still suffer from certain dental conditions. Skipping dentist visits can make your condition worse. Choose affordable dental patient financing solutions such as Denefits to get access to the needed dental care.

We hope this blog will help you improve your dental health and maintain oral hygiene.

Do you know tips to prevent the common conditions related to dental health? We’d love to read in the comments!