Common Dental Problems

An abscessed tooth is a painful condition resulting from a bacterial infection that occurs when a tooth is severely decayed or damaged. The infection can spread to the root of the tooth, leading to swelling, intense pain, fever, and even bad breath. An untreated abscess can lead to more severe infections or tooth loss.

Treatment Options: Dr. Kruse may perform a root canal to remove the infection, followed by placing a crown to restore the tooth. In some cases, extraction may be necessary if the tooth cannot be saved.

Bad breath, or halitosis, is a common issue that can be caused by several factors, including poor oral hygiene, gum disease, tooth decay, or even systemic health problems. It can be an embarrassing condition, but it’s important to identify the root cause for effective treatment.

Treatment Options: Dr. Kruse will examine your mouth for signs of gum disease, cavities, or other conditions that may be contributing to bad breath. Regular cleanings, proper brushing and flossing, and treatment of underlying issues like gum disease can help eliminate halitosis. If necessary, Dr. Kruse may suggest specialized treatments such as mouthwashes or professional cleanings.

Tooth decay occurs when acids produced by plaque and bacteria dissolve the minerals in your tooth enamel. Over time, the damage leads to cavities—holes in the teeth that can become deeper and more painful. If left untreated, cavities can lead to infection or even tooth loss.

Treatment Options: Cavities are typically treated with dental fillings. Dr. Kruse will remove the decayed portion of the tooth and fill the space with a tooth-colored composite or metal filling. For larger cavities, crowns or root canals may be necessary to restore the tooth’s function.

Dry mouth, or xerostomia, occurs when there’s insufficient saliva production. It can lead to discomfort, difficulty swallowing, increased tooth decay, and bad breath. While medication side effects are a common cause, dry mouth can also result from dehydration, smoking, or certain health conditions.

Treatment Options: Dr. Kruse can recommend treatments such as saliva substitutes, changes to medication, or the use of specialized mouthwashes to help alleviate dry mouth. In some cases, increasing water intake or using a humidifier may help.

Dental fluorosis is a condition caused by excessive fluoride exposure during early childhood, when the permanent teeth are still developing. It results in discoloration, typically in the form of white streaks or spots on the enamel.

Treatment Options: While mild fluorosis may not require treatment, more severe cases can benefit from cosmetic solutions like teeth whitening, microabrasion, or veneers. Dr. Kruse will assess the severity of the condition and suggest the most appropriate solution.

Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease, characterized by inflammation of the gums due to plaque buildup. If left untreated, it can progress to more serious conditions like periodontitis, which can lead to tooth loss.

Treatment Options: The good news is that gingivitis is reversible with proper care. Dr. Kruse will likely recommend professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar, as well as improved oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing and flossing.

Plaque is a sticky, colorless film of bacteria that forms on teeth. If not removed through regular brushing and flossing, plaque can harden into tartar, leading to tooth decay and gum disease.

Treatment Options: Regular dental cleanings are essential to remove plaque and tartar buildup. Dr. Kruse may also suggest the use of special toothpaste or mouth rinses to help prevent plaque formation and keep your teeth clean between visits.

Tooth sensitivity occurs when the underlying layer of your teeth (dentin) becomes exposed, usually due to gum recession or worn enamel. This exposure causes discomfort when eating or drinking hot, cold, or acidic foods.

Treatment Options: Dr. Kruse can help treat sensitive teeth using fluoride treatments, desensitizing toothpaste, or bonding materials to cover exposed areas. If gum recession is the cause, gum grafts may be necessary to restore protection to the tooth roots.

Teeth grinding, or bruxism, is the involuntary clenching or grinding of teeth, often occurring during sleep. It can lead to tooth wear, jaw pain, headaches, and other dental problems.

Treatment Options: Dr. Kruse may recommend a custom night guard to protect your teeth from the damage caused by grinding. In addition to a mouthguard, stress management techniques, such as relaxation exercises, can also help alleviate bruxism.

Toothaches can be caused by various issues, including cavities, abscesses, or tooth fractures. The pain may be constant or intermittent, and it can often indicate a serious problem that requires immediate attention.

Treatment Options: Dr. Kruse will perform a thorough examination to determine the cause of the toothache. If a cavity or abscess is the issue, treatments like fillings or root canals may be needed. If the pain is caused by a fracture, a crown or extraction may be necessary to prevent further damage.