Your smile is the first thing people notice about you and is also the gateway to the rest of your body. Having a healthy, good-looking smile is the best thing you can do for your confidence, oral health, and overall health. Dr. Elizabeth Duling is a talented dentist in Owens Cross Roads, AL, who treats many dental concerns to improve her patients’ dental health.
She provides patients with general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry solutions to resolve their dental concerns. When you notice a new dental concern, you must immediately address it. Please do not hesitate to contact your local dentist, even if unsure whether you have a serious concern. Receiving immediate dental treatment can prevent further complications and worsening problems. Our office is ready to answer all your questions and help you find solutions to common dental issues.
What to Expect When You Visit Our Office
Your local dentist in Owens Cross Roads, AL, is a patient-focused practice. We understand that everyone is different and has individual dental needs. During your consultation, our dental professionals will discuss your health needs and goals.
We will work with you to provide the proper diagnosis. Then, we will create a treatment plan to match your individual needs. Dr. Duling will consider your dental history, medical conditions, and current symptoms. She will customize your dental care according to your specific budget and goals.
When you visit us, you can expect to receive expert dental care. Our state-of-the-art dentist office offers a comfortable atmosphere where we deliver top-quality dental treatments. Whatever your oral health care needs, we will find the proper treatment.
Common Dental Concerns in Owens Cross Roads, AL
Addressing your dental concerns will benefit your long-term oral health. The longer you delay treatment, the bigger the problems will become. You should seek treatment as soon as possible to avoid permanent or further damage to the teeth and gums.
Some of the most common dental concerns Dr. Duling treats in her office include:
Crooked Teeth
Misaligned and crooked teeth are more than a cosmetic issue. They can also lead to tooth decay, gum disease, bite problems, and a higher risk of tooth damage and breakage. Crooked teeth are hard to clean and can create uneven pressure on the teeth and jaw.
If you have moderate orthodontic problems, we offer several treatments to align your teeth. These treatments include Invisalign, ClearCorrect, and Six Month Smiles. After straightening your teeth, you can benefit from an improved look and easier cleaning.
Bleeding Gums
If your gums bleed when you brush and floss, you likely have inflamed gums. Bleeding gums are never a good sign. In most cases, this is the first sign of gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease.
Plaque, or a sticky bacterial film, is a substance that constantly forms in your mouth. It will build up your teeth if not removed regularly with brushing. This can lead to gum irritation and inflammation that causes the gums to bleed. Dr. Duling offers several gum disease treatments to help treat bleeding gums.
Discolored Teeth
Yellow, stained, or discolored teeth are not attractive, and many patients suffer from embarrassment due to this dental concern. Teeth can stain for many reasons, including medication, disease, certain types of food and drink, and aging. We offer many types of treatment to tackle this common dental problem.
Dental Anxiety
If you are anxious or scared to visit the dentist, you are not alone. Many of our patients suffer from dental anxiety or fear of the dentist. This dental concern can stem from many things. Our caring and compassionate dentist’s office welcomes people with this issue. We provide several strategies to help you get the dental treatments you need.
Chipped Tooth
A chipped tooth is a common dental accident. Patients can chip their teeth during sports, when chewing on hard objects, or grinding their teeth. Dr. Duling offers several treatments that can fix a chipped tooth.
Bonding is a quick and economical option for a tooth chip. Veneers can cover the front of a chipped tooth to improve its appearance. Dental bonding and veneers are best for more minor tooth chips. If you have a deep chip in your tooth and develop an infection, we will recommend a root canal and dental crown.
Bad Breath
When we treat bad breath, we address the root cause of the problem. Depending on the cause, we offer multiple treatment options. Smelly foods, thrush, gum disease, and tooth decay are common causes of bad breath.
In most cases, we recommend a more thorough at-home oral hygiene routine. Drinking enough water daily and visiting the dentist for cleanings can create fresher breath. Professional deep cleanings and antibiotics can lessen bad breath if you have a tooth or gum infection.
Headaches
Painful headaches are a common daily occurrence for many people. However, if you suffer from frequent headaches, you must determine the underlying cause. Contact our office if you suspect your bite or jaw contributes to your headaches. Dental problems like TMJ disorders and crooked teeth can cause regular headaches.
These problems create uneven pressure, which increases facial tension and headaches. Seeking proper treatment at the dentist can alleviate pain and prevent potential complications.
Tooth Infection
A tooth infection can cause significant discomfort and pain. Poor dental health often leads to tooth decay. Harmful bacteria feed on sugars and starches left in the mouth. Over time, the bacteria feed on food debris and break down the natural tooth enamel, or outer tooth layer. If you don’t treat a tooth infection, it can spread to other body parts, leading to serious health problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can crooked teeth increase my risk of developing cavities or jaw pain?
Yes, crooked teeth can make it harder to brush and floss effectively, which leads to plaque buildup and a higher risk of cavities. They can also affect your bite, putting uneven pressure on the jaw and leading to pain or tension over time. This can result in TMJ issues, worn teeth, or chronic discomfort. Straightening your teeth improves both appearance and long-term oral health.
How do I know if my tooth pain is caused by an infection?
Tooth pain from an infection often feels sharp, throbbing, or constant and may be accompanied by swelling, a bad taste, or sensitivity to heat. You might also feel pain when chewing or touching the tooth. In some cases, a pimple-like bump appears on the gums near the tooth. If you notice any of these signs, you should contact our office immediately for evaluation.
What treatment options are available for minor tooth chips?
Minor chips can usually be repaired with dental bonding, which uses tooth-colored resin to rebuild the missing area. If the chip affects your front teeth or smile, porcelain veneers may be an option for better aesthetics. For slightly larger chips, a dental crown may be recommended to restore strength. Dr. Duling will suggest the best treatment based on the location and size of the chip.
How do I know if my bad breath is caused by a dental problem or something else?
Bad breath caused by dental issues often comes from plaque buildup, gum disease, cavities, or a dry mouth. If brushing, flossing, and mouthwash don’t improve it, and it’s persistent, a dental cause is likely. Dr. Duling can check for underlying problems during a routine visit. If your mouth is healthy, the issue may be related to diet, sinus issues, or another medical condition.
Can dental bonding fix both chips and discoloration in teeth?
Yes, tooth bonding can be used to fix small chips and cover up mild discoloration at the same time. The resin is shaped and shaded to match your natural teeth, improving appearance in one quick visit. Bonding works best for minor issues and is more affordable than veneers. However, it may not last as long or resist stains as well.
What are the risks of not treating a minor tooth crack or chip right away?
Even small cracks or chips can get worse over time if left untreated. They may allow bacteria to enter the tooth, leading to decay or infection. A crack can also spread under pressure, causing pain or requiring more complex treatment later. Early repair prevents further damage and protects your overall oral health.
Do bite problems from misaligned teeth affect overall oral health?
Yes, bite problems can cause uneven wear on teeth, jaw strain, and difficulty cleaning certain areas. This increases the risk of cavities, gum disease, and TMJ disorders. A misaligned bite can also affect speech and chewing. Treating alignment issues helps improve function and prevent long-term complications.
Contact Our Dental Office
Call our local dentist’s office in Owens Cross Roads, AL, to treat your dental concerns. You can reach us at 256.202.4186 or request an appointment by completing the online form. Please contact us if you have questions about your current symptoms. We will help treat your concerns.