Oral Health Conditions

• Pain while biting or chewing
• Toothache that comes and goes
• Sensitivity to temperature changes or sweet foods
• Swelling around the tooth
• Pain around the teeth and gums that is difficult to locate

Whether due to excessive force or regular wear and tear, occasionally the enamel of a tooth can chip. Depending on the location and severity of the chip, it can be more than a cosmetic issue, resulting in pain or sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures.

Chipped teeth differ from cracked teeth in that the tooth has broken in such a way that a large or small piece of enamel has fragmented off.

What causes teeth to chip?

Common causes of chipped teeth include:

• Biting on hard food or other substances
• Accidents of falls, including sports injuries
• Teeth grinding
• Misaligned bite
• Tongue or mouth piercings

Teeth enamel is one of the strongest substances in the body, but teeth can be weakened by a number of things, making them more prone to chipping. Some things that can put you at greater risk of chipping a tooth include:

• Tooth decay
• Large fillings
• Worn enamel due to bruxism
• Eating acidic foods
• Eating foods high in sugar (which causes acid to form in the mouth)
• Acid reflux
• Normal enamel wear over time

What are the symptoms of a chipped tooth?

It’s entirely possible to not realize that you have a chipped tooth if the chip is minor or not somewhere you can easily see. Here are some possible signs you may encounter, however:

• Noticing a jagged surface with your tongue—tongue irritation from rubbing the surface
• Gums may become irritated around the chipped tooth
• There can be pain when biting on the tooth if the chip exposes the nerves of the tooth

What treatment options are available for chipped teeth?

If you suspect you may have a chipped tooth, contact your dentist for an exam. If you are experiencing no major pain or issues with eating, this may not be an emergency, but it’s a good idea to have it addressed in a timely way so as to prevent the enamel damage from getting worse or an infection from developing, depending on the nature of the chip the tooth.

Reattachment

In the event that you can save the tooth fragment, there is a possibility that it can be cemented back into place. If this is the case, place the tooth fragment in a glass of milk to help keep it moist.

Tooth Contouring

This method is used for shallow chips. The dentist will remove a small amount of the tooth’s enamel, smoothing out the surface of your tooth and making it look as though nothing ever happened.

Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is a typical treatment option for addressing a chip in a tooth. Bonding uses a tooth-colored composite resin to fill in the chipped area and restore the tooth to its original shape.

Veneers

Depending on the visibility and extent of the tooth damage, a veneer is another possible treatment option. Veneers cover the entire front-facing portion of the tooth with a thin layer of porcelain, giving the tooth a completely new appearance.

• Throbbing pain near tooth or gums
• Pain that increases when you lie down
• Pain when eating
• Red, swollen gums
• Tooth sensitivity
• Discolored teeth
• Loose teeth
• Bad breath
• Bad taste in the mouth
• Swelling in the face
• Swollen lymph nodes in neck or jaw
• Fever
• Difficulty in swallowing or breathing

What is a bruised tooth?

While most people are familiar with bruises, it may be strange to consider the idea that a tooth can be bruised. However, your teeth have connective tissues and ligaments that hold them in place and cushion them against the kinds of forces they are subjected to during regular use. On an occasion when a tooth has been put under too much pressure or has experienced trauma, these tissues can become damaged or inflamed. This is known as a bruised tooth or sprained tooth syndrome.

Much like a bodily bruise, a bruised tooth can happen from an injury. This can be the result of a sports injury, a blow to the mouth, or things like biting down on a hard object or tooth grinding. The surrounding connective tissue will attempt to absorb the impact, but the capillaries around the tooth will burst, leading to discoloration—much as with any other type of bruise. Some degree of pain in the area may result as well.

The discoloration of a bruised tooth is usually a shade that varies between pink and gray. This color may be an indicator of the amount of damage the tooth has sustained. The pink color typically indicates that the tooth is in a stage where it is attempting to protect the nerve, though it can also be a sign of problems with the root of the tooth, so it is not safe to make an assumption based on color alone. The gray shade is a more likely indicator that the pulp of the tooth is dying, and there is a risk of decay or infection.

In all cases, you should contact the dentist to have an examination.

Symptoms of a bruised tooth

The first symptom you may notice with a bruised or sprained tooth is a dull, achy pain in the general area, similar to a sprained ligament. Alternatively, the pain may be located specifically in the affected tooth, where it may be a sharper type of pain.

The tooth may become discolored—turning somewhere between pink and gray, as mentioned above—and the surrounding gums could become sensitive and inflamed.

It may be difficult to distinguish the pain of a bruised tooth from toothache resulting from infection or tooth decay, so we recommend having your tooth looked at by the dentist.

How is a bruised tooth treated?

Whenever a tooth is showing signs of trauma, it is best to make an appointment to have it examined. X-rays will likely be taken to assess damage that might not be visible, and your mouth will be checked for loose teeth, sensitivity, or hidden problems like an abscess. Treatment will vary depending on the diagnosis. In cases where the bruised tooth is the result of teeth grinding, it may be recommended that you wear a nightguard to protect your teeth and ligaments from further damage. Mouthguards for sports are always recommended to protect teeth.

In many other cases, recovery for a bruised tooth will simply come down to giving the tooth time to heal. Over-the-counter modifications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help with the pain from inflammation, and you should avoid further strain on the area if at all possible. Make sure you follow the treatment plan provided by the dentist to make sure your recovery goes as smoothly as possible.

What is Malocclusion?

Malocclusion refers to a misaligned bite, caused when the upper and lower teeth don’t come together properly when the mouth is closed. In a properly-aligned bite, the upper teeth should slightly overlap the lower teeth, with the points of the molars fitting into the grooves of the molars opposite them.

When the teeth don’t fit together in a proper bite, it can cause difficulty with eating and speaking and may lead to potential health problems, such as increasing the likelihood of tooth decay and gum disease. An improper bite can also cause irregular enamel wear or result in jaw problems.

What Causes Malocclusion?

Often, malocclusion is inherited and passed down through families through genetics. It can be the result of the size or shape of the jaw or teeth causing teeth to be overcrowded or come together abnormally. Sometimes, malocclusion is the result of missing or extra teeth, which has caused the other teeth to shift positions. A misaligned bite can also result from childhood thumb-sucking or prolonged use of a pacifier or bottle.

Symptoms of Malocclusion

Malocclusion is often noticeable just by appearance, but there are other symptoms that may indicate an improperly-aligned bite. Some symptoms include:

• Visible misalignment of teeth – Crowded teeth, crossbite, overbite, underbite, open bite
• Abnormal appearance of the face
• Difficulties with chewing and biting
• Speech impediments or a lisp
• Mouth-breathing

How is Malocclusion Treated?

Teeth that are perfectly aligned naturally are rare, and not all misaligned teeth will require treatment. It is best to check with the dentist or an orthodontist to find out what may be needed in your case. Typically, malocclusion can be addressed via orthodontic treatment such as traditional braces or clear aligner trays such as Invisalign. If the improper bite is due to irregularly shaped teeth, these issues can be treated via reshaping the enamel or through dental bonding. In some cases where teeth are overcrowded, tooth extraction may be recommended in order to make more room. Surgery is sometimes called for in cases where reshaping the jaw is the best way to address major bite issues.

Toothache

A toothache is a type of pain that occurs in or around the teeth or jaws. It can range in intensity from a mild, dull ache to a sharp, stabbing pain. Toothaches can be caused by a variety of factors, and they can be a sign of underlying dental or oral health issues.

What oral conditions might a toothache be an indicator of?

Toothaches can be a sign of a number of different oral conditions, including:

• Cavities: A cavity is a small hole in the tooth that is caused by tooth decay. Cavities can cause toothaches, especially if the decay reaches the inner part of the tooth, called the pulp.
• Infection: An infection in the tooth or gum can cause a toothache. Infections can be caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses, and they may require antibiotics to clear up.
• Abscess: An abscess is a pocket of pus that forms as the body’s response to an infection. Abscesses can occur in the tooth or gum, and they can cause toothaches, swelling, and fever.
• Tooth trauma: A toothache may be caused by trauma to the tooth, such as a chip or fracture.
• Gum disease: Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is a condition in which the gums become inflamed and infected. It can cause toothaches, as well as other symptoms such as bleeding gums and loose teeth.
• Grinding or clenching: Grinding or clenching the teeth, also known as bruxism, can cause toothaches and other oral health problems.

When should I be concerned about a toothache?

A toothache is usually a sign of an underlying issue that needs to be addressed. If you have a toothache that persists for more than a few days, or if it is accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever, swelling, or difficulty swallowing, you should see the dentist as soon as possible.

How does the dentist treat a toothache?

The treatment for a toothache will depend on the underlying cause. Some common treatments include:

• Filling a cavity: If the toothache is caused by a cavity, Dr. Williams will remove the decay and fill the hole with a composite filling.
• Treating an infection: If the toothache is caused by an infection, Dr. Williams may prescribe antibiotics to clear up the infection. They may also need to remove the infected tooth or perform a root canal to remove the infected pulp from inside the tooth.
• Repairing tooth trauma: If the toothache is caused by tooth trauma, Dr. Williams may need to repair the tooth with a filling, crown, or another type of dental restoration.
• Treating gum disease: If the toothache is caused by gum disease, the dentist will clean the teeth and gums to remove the bacteria that are causing the infection. They may also recommend medications or procedures to help control the infection and prevent it from recurring.
• Treating grinding or clenching: If the toothache is caused by grinding or clenching the teeth, the dentist may recommend a mouthguard to protect the teeth from further damage. They may also suggest strategies for managing stress and other factors that may contribute to grinding or clenching.

How long can I wait to have a toothache checked out by a dentist?

It is generally a good idea to see Dr. Williams as soon as possible if you are experiencing a toothache. The longer you wait, the more likely it is that the underlying issue will become worse and more difficult to treat. If the toothache is severe or accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever, swelling, or difficulty swallowing, you should make an appointment right away.

Gum Recession

What is gum recession?

Gum recession is a condition in which the gum tissue surrounding the teeth begins to pull away from the tooth, exposing more of the tooth or tooth root. Gum recession can be caused by a variety of factors, and it can lead to a number of serious oral health problems if left untreated.

What causes gum recession?

Gum recession can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Gum disease: Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is a common cause of gum recession. It occurs when the gums become inflamed and infected, leading to the loss of gum tissue and bone around the teeth.
• Brushing too hard: Brushing the teeth too hard or using a toothbrush with hard bristles can cause the gums to recede.
• Grinding or clenching: Grinding or clenching the teeth, also known as bruxism, can cause the gums to recede over time.
• Poor oral hygiene: Not brushing the teeth properly can lead to a build-up of plaque and tartar, which can cause the gums to recede.
• Genetics: Some people may be more prone to gum recession due to genetic factors.

How do I know if I have gum recession—what are the symptoms?

Some common symptoms of gum recession include:

• Sensitivity to hot or cold beverages or foods
• Tooth sensitivity when biting or chewing
• A visible gap between the gum and tooth
• Longer-looking teeth
• Receding gum line

When should I seek treatment for gum recession?

If you notice any of the symptoms of gum recession, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible. Gum recession can lead to a number of serious oral health problems if left untreated, such as tooth loss, bone loss, and an increased risk of gum disease.

What happens if gum recession goes untreated?

If gum recession goes untreated, it can lead to a number of serious oral health problems, including:

• Tooth loss: Gum recession can lead to the loss of tooth structure, which can make the tooth more prone to decay and infection. If left untreated, the tooth may eventually fall out.
• Bone loss: Gum recession can lead to the loss of bone tissue around the teeth, which can cause the teeth to become loose and more prone to falling out.
• Increased risk of gum disease: Gum recession can make the gums more vulnerable to infection, increasing the risk of gum disease.

How is gum recession treated?

Treatment for gum recession will depend on the underlying cause and the severity of the recession. Some common treatments include:

• Scaling and root planing: This procedure involves removing plaque and tartar from the teeth and smoothing the root surfaces to help the gums reattach to the teeth.
• Soft tissue laser therapy: This non-invasive procedure uses lasers to stimulate the growth of gum tissue and help the gums reattach to the teeth.
• Periodontal surgery: In more severe cases of gum recession, periodontal surgery may be necessary to repair the damaged gum tissue and bone. This may involve procedures such as pocket reduction surgery, bone grafting, or guided tissue regeneration.
• Gum graft surgery: In this procedure, a piece of gum tissue is taken from another part of the mouth and grafted onto the area of recession. This can help to cover the exposed tooth root and protect it from further damage.

Can gum recession be prevented?

It is important to note that gum recession can be prevented by maintaining good oral hygiene and seeing a dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups. Brush the teeth gently using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a toothpaste that contains fluoride, and floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth. Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, as these habits can increase the risk of gum recession and other oral health problems.