Tooth decay, also known as cavities is the most prevalent disease, which occurs when plaque, the sticky substance that forms on teeth, combines with sugars and/or starches of the food you eat, producing acids that attack tooth enamel. To prevent tooth decay, brush twice a day, clean between your teeth using a floss or interdental brush, eat healthy foods, avoid snacks & drinks that are high in sugar.

Gum disease, is an infection of the gums surrounding the teeth, one of the main causes of tooth loss among adults. There is a link between heart disease and periodontal disease. Smoking, chewing tobacco, diabetes and dry mouth are also significant risk factors for gum disease. Symptoms may include bad breath, red, swollen, tender or bleeding gums, sticky saliva, sensitive teeth, loose teeth and painful chewing.

Mouth sores, only if they last more than two weeks, could be a concern. Common mouth sores are canker sores that occur inside the mouth, not on the lips. If they last longer, it could be a symptom of oral cancer & you may also have a change in bite and difficulty chewing or moving your tongue or jaw. The biggest risk factors are tobacco and alcohol use, including chewing tobacco.

Tooth erosion is the loss of tooth structure caused by acid attacking the enamel. Tooth sensitivity involves experiencing pain or discomfort to your teeth from sweets, cold air, hot & cold drinks or ice cream. Take care of your tooth enamel, when it's gone the nerve endings that cause pain are exposed. Brushing too hard, grinding your teeth (bruxism)are common factors that wear of the enamel. Sensitive teeth can also be a sign of a cracked tooth or a tooth abscess, which has to be treated.

Common emergencies are a broken or cracked tooth, an abscessed tooth, a tooth knocked out or fractured in an accident. Go to a trauma care if you have dislocated or fractured your jaw, have severe cuts to your tongue, lips, or mouth. If you have a swelling, fever or difficulty swallowing along with toothache, reach out to a dentist before taking any self-medication.

Missing tooth or teeth have to be restored with a dental implant and/or an artificial prosthesis ( crown, bridge or dentures) for a fully functional and aesthetic smile. If you have an unsightly smile because of mal aligned teeth it can be corrected with orthodontic treatment. If you have stains, unsightly gaps and minor rotations etc., that can be corrected with cosmetic dental procedures.

Cavity ( tooth decay) is the most common dental problem in children. Don't let your child take milk or juice to bed, as when their teeth are in a constant contact with sugar,it allows the bacteria in their mouth to grow, causing tooth decay. Thumb sucking, lip sucking & tongue thrusting habits can cause problems with alignment of teeth & jaws, deter this habit with positive reinforcement & patience. If your child prematurely loses a tooth because of decay or injury, you must visit a pediatric dentist immediately.