Do not underestimate the need for maintaining proper oral health for adults from ages 20 to 40. What you do in your twenties plays a role in how healthy your teeth are into your forties and beyond. Taking care of your smile continues to require a regular care routine and preventative habits.
What are Common Dental Concerns for Adults Under 40?
Primary dental issues for adults include tooth decay, tooth sensitivity, and periodontal disease.
Primary dental issues for adults include tooth decay, tooth sensitivity, and periodontal disease.
Tooth Decay
Cavities are not just for kids and teens. They affect adults, and when they become deep, the soft core of the teeth requires root canal treatment. When the infection goes too far, it also means the potential to lose the affected tooth.
Tooth Sensitivity
When your teeth are sensitive to cold or hot liquids, it might be a sign of 4 different issues: worn-out fillings, fractured teeth, gum disease, and worn enamel.
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal or Gum disease affects the gums or tissue that holds teeth in place. The inflammation can destroy both tissue and bone and ultimately can lead to tooth loss. The major cause of gum disease is a build-up of plaque, a bacteria film that sticks to teeth. When left on teeth, it hardens into tartar, which will form above and below the gums. The buildup of both tartar and plaque hosts bacteria that lead to gum disease. There are two stages: gingivitis and periodontitis. Without treatment, gingivitis turns to periodontitis, which is more serious. Treatment depends on the disease’s progress when discovered during dental visits.
Teeth Grinding & TMJ
Bruxism, more commonly known as teeth grinding, typically occurs during times of stress and/or while sleeping. Grinding teeth causes serious damage to both teeth and jaw. Bruxism can also happen because of sleeping disorders. Your dentist will determine the cause of teeth grinding and will usually prescribe a custom mouthguard for teeth protection during sleep.
A related condition, TMJ or temporomandibular joint, creates pain due to the joint not working properly. The cause of this disorder is unknown, except it seems related to stress and teeth grinding; dislocation, tooth alignment, or arthritis. Contact your dentist if you experience any type of jaw or facial pain.
Symptoms of TMJ
- Headaches
- Clicking or popping when opening mouth
- Ear pain or in the area around the ear
- Jaw tenderness
Root Canals and Adults Under 40
When a cavity becomes too deep for repair, dentists must perform a root canal. These procedures treat issues with the tooth’s soft core or dental pulp. Injuries or infections of the pulp tissue can cause it to die. Your dentist must remove it to prevent infection of the tooth and loss of the tooth.
Teeth Whitening
As you age, your teeth can lose their shine and brightness. Many adults under 40 choose to brighten their smiles with teeth whitening services. Talk to your dentist about whitening procedures to determine if teeth and gums are healthy to handle whitening, particularly for dark teeth stains, fillings, and crowns.
What are Teeth Whitening Options?
- Stain Removal Toothpastes
- Bleaching In Office
- Custom At Home Bleaching from Dentist
- Over the Counter Bleaching Products