Common Problems

At the practice of Dr. Christian Johnson DMD, we proudly provide a comprehensive range of high-quality dentistry services to children and adults living in the communities of Waldorf, La Plata, and Brandywine, Maryland. Whether you’re looking for a provider of cosmetic dentistry to improve the appearance of your smile or need a general dentist in the Waldorf area to care for your family’s oral health, we welcome you to our practice where we’re passionate about providing you with the dental care you need. Below are some of the most common dental problems people experience that we can help treat. 

Tooth Sensitivity

People with sensitive teeth feel temporary pain in their teeth when doing certain activities like consuming cold or hot foods and beverages and when brushing and flossing. Even breathing cold air can be uncomfortable for people with extremely sensitive teeth. Those with sensitive teeth can experience several problems over time including worn down tooth enamel, receding gums, and the development of tiny cracks in the teeth which can expose the interior of the teeth to irritate sensitive nerve endings.

Sensitive Teeth

Your teeth expand and contract in reaction to changes in temperature. Hot and cold foods and beverages can cause pain or irritation to people with sensitive teeth. Over time, tooth enamel can be worn down, gums may recede or teeth may develop microscopic cracks, exposing the interior of the tooth and irritating nerve endings. Simply breathing cold air can be painful for those with extremely sensitive teeth.

Gum Disease

Also known as gum disease, periodontal disease is a progressive condition that can lead to inflamed gums, tooth loss, and bone damage. Signs of gum disease include consistently foul smelling breath, an unpleasant taste in the mouth and gums which bleed easily. If periodontal disease is not treated, it can result in teeth which fall out or need to be extracted by a dentist. Periodontal disease is highly preventable and can be avoided by maintaining a good oral hygiene routine and visiting your La Plata, MD area dentist regularly for routine checkups and cleanings.

Bad Breath or Halitosis

Persistently foul smelling breath or an unpleasant taste in the mouth can be a sign of periodontal disease or other dental problem. People can avoid halitosis by maintaining a good oral hygiene routine by brushing and flossing away tiny bits of food, plaque and bacteria in the mouth.

Canker Sores

A canker sore or aphthous ulcer is a small sore that develops on the soft tissues inside the mouth. This type of sore, which has a white or gray base encircled by a reddish colored border, typically lasts for a week or two. Treating a canker sore can be done by applying an over-the-counter topical agent or through the use of an antimicrobial mouth rinse.

Orthodontic Problems

A malocclusion or “bad bite’ can be inherited or acquired. Some of the common causes of malocclusion include missing or extra teeth, crowded teeth, a finger or thumb sucking habit, injuries/trauma, misaligned jaws, or developmental issues.

Schedule an Appointment with Dr. Johnson

Our Waldorf, MD dentist, Dr. Christian Johnson, stresses the importance of preventative dental care so his patients can avoid the many common problems that affect the teeth and gums. Our practice makes it a top priority to help our patients achieve optimal oral health by educating them about how to practice proper dental hygiene and oral care. If it’s time for you to undergo a routine dental examination and professional teeth cleaning or you’re looking to improve your smile with cosmetic dentistry treatments, please request an appointment today or contact our Waldorf, MD office at (301) 645-3230. We look forward to giving you a healthy smile!