Your teeth may look healthy but it not – 10 aspects to this By Dr. Karishma Jaradi – Head Dental Surgeon, Dentzz Dental

First impressions can be deceiving. Even healthy teeth may have hidden defects that can
cause major problems. Cavities and gum disease grow slowly, making early identification
difficult. So, knowing dental warning signals is vital even if your teeth appear healthy. We
address 10 aspects.

Enamel decay: Enamel decay, also known as dental caries or tooth decay, is a common
dental condition in which the hard outer layer of the tooth, called enamel, is broken down
by acid-producing bacteria. But cavities between teeth or in deep grooves on back teeth are
hard to see. Back teeth chewing surfaces and gumlines also often have them. Cavities that
sometimes occur between teeth, making are difficult to see in the mirror. Fluoride
toothpaste after meals and before night can prevent cavities.

Gingivitis: Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is a common dental disorder that affects the
gums and supporting tissues. Plaque and bacteria on teeth irritate and inflame gums. Gum
disease can cause bone deterioration, tooth loss, and gum recession. Gum-related issues
can be hard to detect because the gums may look healthy. Good oral hygiene and dental
check-ups prevent and diagnose gum disease.

Chipped teeth: Teeth are incredibly strong and durable, but they can still develop cracks and
fractures due to a variety of factors, such as trauma, biting on hard objects, or even just
normal wear and tear over time. These hairline cracks may be invisible to the naked eye, but
they can weaken the tooth and make it more susceptible to further damage, such as
chipping or breaking. Even minor cracks can let bacteria into the tooth, causing decay or
infection and pain. Depending on its severity, dentists can diagnose and treat it.
Dentin hypersensitivity: This disorder, known as sensitive teeth, causes intense pain or
discomfort in one or more teeth in response to hot or cold temperatures, sweet or sour
meals, or brushing or flossing pressure. This is caused by worn enamel exposing the dentin
(thick bone tissue), causing pain. Dentin nerve terminal tubes are activated by external
stimuli. Teeth decay, gum disease, grinding, aggressive brushing, or acidic foods and drinks
can cause this.

Grinding teeth: Teeth grinding, is a common dental condition that involves clenching and
grinding the teeth unconsciously, usually during sleep. It can go unnoticed but cause a range
of symptoms, including headaches, jaw pain, tooth sensitivity, and worn-down teeth. Stress,
anxiety, and sleep disorders can contribute to teeth grinding. Treatment may include
mouthguards or relaxation techniques.
Tooth abscess: A tooth abscess won’t be visible but is a painful dental condition caused by a
bacterial infection in the tooth or surrounding tissues. Symptoms may include severe

toothache, swelling, fever, and difficulty swallowing. Treatment may involve draining the
abscess, antibiotics, and in severe cases, root canal therapy or tooth extraction.
Whitish-coated tongue: A white tongue coating may not indicate ill teeth, but it may
indicate poor oral hygiene, which might cause dental issues. Bacteria, dead cells, and food
debris can cause the tongue white coating and tooth decay, and gum disease. To avoid
dental issues and preserve good oral health, one must brush twice a day, floss daily, and
visit the dentist periodically.

Molar impaction: Wisdom teeth that are impacted or partially erupted can cause pain,
swelling, and infection. They may not be visible but can cause significant problems if left
untreated. Many oral health issues, including harm to neighbouring teeth, can be brought
on by impacted wisdom teeth. They might also be a factor in jaw cysts or tumours.
Foul breath: Bad breath, or halitosis, can be caused by poor oral hygiene and unhealthy
teeth. Bacteria in the mouth break down food particles, causing a foul odour. An underlying
condition of gum disease, tooth decay, and dry mouth can also contribute to bad breath.
Sticking food particles: Food often becomes stuck between the back teeth, or a popcorn
kernel may have gotten into a fissure. Food trapping between teeth in certain scenarios is a
common occurrence. However, food becoming stuck in the same spot may indicate a cavity.
Cavities trap food between teeth, which breeds germs and exacerbates the cavity. A coating
of carbohydrates and starches from poor tooth brushing causes cavities. This plaque erodes
tooth enamel, leaving cracks and gaps between teeth.