Issues that happen under the gums; a guide from our private dentist
When most people attend a dental check-up, they think that their dentist is only looking at their teeth to check for cavities or other signs of issues that may be occurring, such as chips or cracks.
But, interestingly, there are a fair amount of issues that can happen in a place where no dental team can see, under the gum line. And, while these issues are usually hidden from the all-seeing eye of a dental practitioner, they can cause a fair bit of trouble.
When you come to see our team at S10 Dental, our private dentist Sheffield will always aim to explore any unusual twinges or sensations that you have with your teeth. Using our trusty X-ray, we will be able to diagnose and treat any issues that are hidden under the gum line and will work towards improving your overall oral health.
So, what are some of the dental issues that our private dentist Sheffield has seen that lurk under the gums?
Cracks
It is an unpleasant thing to consider, but some people do experience cracks forming underneath their gum line. These can be caused by trauma or may be linked to extensive clenching of the jaws at night time.
If our private dentist Sheffield suspects that you have a crack or some other damage to a tooth that cannot be spotted, we will perform an X-ray. Usually, symptoms of a crack underneath a tooth are related to sporadic sensitivity and an unusual twinging.
Abscess
Another occurrence that happens where no one can see is a dental infection. An abscess, or dental infection, is a collection of pus that forms in response to a build-up of bacteria. When an abscess forms under the gumline, it can cause pain, swelling, and redness. In some cases, an abscess can also cause fever and general malaise. Treatment for an abscess typically involves draining the pus and taking antibiotics to clear up the infection, followed by either a root canal or a dental extraction.
Root resorption
Root resorption is a condition in which the body begins to break down the roots of a tooth. This can be caused by trauma, infection, or other factors and can lead to tooth loss if left untreated, as there is nothing to hold the tooth in place. Root resorption can be difficult to detect, as it often occurs under the gumline, but we will be able to spot it with an X-ray. Treatment for root resorption may involve a root canal to remove the affected tissue and save the tooth.
Impaction
Having an impacted tooth is no fun and is most likely to occur with wisdom teeth, which erupt between the ages of 14-19 years of age.
An impacted tooth is one that is trying to erupt but is doing so at an odd angle and is crashing into the nearest erupted tooth’s roots, causing pressure.
Symptoms of an impacted tooth include discomfort, swelling of the gum line, and, of course, feeling unwell. If you have any of these dental symptoms, call us today, and we will seek to resolve the impaction of your tooth.