Riverside Dentist: Top Dental Diseases in Riverside, California

Your smile is a reflection of your overall well-being. Maintaining good oral health in Riverside, California is essential not only for a dazzling smile but also for your ability to speak, chew, and engage in daily activities. The most common dental diseases and conditions we see at Riverside Cosmetic Dentist – Dr. Ali Shmara are tooth decay, missing teeth, fractured teeth, tooth infection and gum disease.

Neglecting oral health can lead to a range of dental diseases, making it crucial to adopt preventive measures and routine care.

Cavities, or tooth decay, are one of the most prevalent oral health conditions in Riverside, California. Tooth decay occurs when bacteria in plaque produce acids, leading to the demineralization of tooth enamel. Surprisingly, cavities are largely preventable, yet they remain a common chronic disease. Untreated tooth decay can escalate, causing severe infections and, in rare cases, even fatal outcomes.

Gum disease, affecting 4 in 10 adults ages 30 or older, stems from infections and inflammation of the gums and supporting bone. Conditions like diabetes, poor oral hygiene, and tobacco use can heighten the risk. If left untreated, gum disease can result in tooth loss and further complications, emphasizing the importance of regular dental check-ups.

Few things can disrupt your daily life quite like a tooth infection. The throbbing pain, discomfort, and potential impact on overall health make tooth infections a matter that demands attention. You should be familiar with the causes, symptoms, and essential steps to manage and prevent tooth infections.

Few things can disrupt your daily life quite like a tooth infection. You should be familiar with the causes, symptoms, and essential steps to manage and prevent tooth infections. Tooth infections typically arise from bacterial invasion, often facilitated by untreated cavities or dental trauma. When the protective enamel is compromised, bacteria can infiltrate the inner layers of the tooth, reaching the pulp chamber where nerves and blood vessels reside. Once the bacteria take hold, an infection ensues, causing pain and inflammation.

• Severe Toothache: Persistent and intense pain is a hallmark of a tooth infection.
• Swelling and Redness: Inflammation in the affected area may result in visible swelling and redness.
• Sensitivity to Hot and Cold: Increased sensitivity to temperature changes, especially with hot or cold stimuli.
• Fever: Systemic symptoms like fever may indicate a spreading infection.

If you suspect a tooth infection, we recommend that you seek prompt dental care. Riverside Cosmetic Dentist – Dr. Ali Shmara can diagnose the infection through clinical examination and, if necessary, imaging studies like X-rays. Treatment may involve:

• Antibiotics: To eliminate the bacterial infection.
• Root Canal Therapy: Removing infected pulp and sealing the tooth.
• Tooth Extraction: In cases of severe infection, tooth removal may be necessary.

• Regular Dental Check-ups: Routine visits allow early detection and intervention.
• Good Oral Hygiene: Brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash to maintain a clean mouth.
• Addressing Cavities Promptly: Treating cavities before they escalate is crucial.