10 common dental problems and when to see a dentist

The most common dental problems (cavities, gum disease, tooth sensitivity, and infections) are highly treatable when caught early, but can become serious and costly if left alone. Most Canadians will deal with at least one of these issues in their lifetime. The difference between a quick filling and a root canal, or between early gingivitis and advanced periodontitis, usually comes down to how quickly someone acts.

Not every dental issue needs the same level of urgency. Some problems can wait for your next scheduled checkup, while others need attention within days or even hours. The table below gives you a quick overview of the 10 most common dental problems, their main warning signs, and how quickly you should act.

1. Tooth decay (cavities)

Tooth decay is the most common dental problem worldwide. It happens when bacteria in the mouth break down food sugars and produce acid that gradually erodes tooth enamel, creating cavities. According to the Canadian Dental Association, most Canadians will experience at least one cavity during their lifetime.

Warning signs

• Visible dark spots, pits, or holes on teeth
• Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet food and drink
• Toothache or pain when biting down
• A tooth that feels rough or different to the touch

Early-stage decay often has no symptoms, which is exactly why regular checkups matter. If you notice sensitivity or visible changes to a tooth, don't wait. ; a root canal, when decay reaches the pulp, is not.

2. Gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis)

Gum disease begins as gingivitis, which is inflammation of the gum tissue caused by plaque buildup. Left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more advanced infection that damages the bone supporting the teeth. The Canadian Dental Association notes that gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults.

Warning signs

• Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
• Red, swollen, or tender gums
• Persistent bad breath
• Gums that appear to be pulling away from the teeth
• Loose teeth or changes in how teeth fit together when biting

Bleeding gums aren't normal, even when they don't hurt. Gingivitis is reversible with a and improved home care. Periodontitis is not reversible and requires ongoing treatment to manage. Book an appointment at the first sign of gum problems.

3. Tooth sensitivity

Sensitive teeth make everyday things painful. A sip of hot coffee, a bite of ice cream, or a breath of cold air can trigger a sharp, brief sting. The cause is usually exposed dentin (the layer beneath enamel) due to enamel erosion, gum recession, cracked teeth, or worn fillings.

Warning signs

• Sharp pain triggered by hot, cold, sweet, or acidic food and drink
• Discomfort when breathing in cold air
• Pain when brushing or flossing near the gumline

If sensitivity is new, limited to one tooth, or getting worse, see a dentist. It could indicate a cavity, crack, or exposed root that needs treatment. Widespread sensitivity that's been present for years can sometimes be managed with a desensitizing toothpaste, but it's worth discussing at your next checkup.

4. Toothache

Toothaches range from a dull ache to sharp, throbbing pain that makes it hard to sleep or eat. Common causes include cavities, cracked teeth, abscesses, impacted wisdom teeth, and damaged fillings. Pain that radiates to the jaw, ear, or neck may signal an infection spreading beyond the tooth.

Warning signs

• Persistent or throbbing tooth pain
• Pain that worsens when lying down
• Swelling around a tooth or in the jaw
• Fever alongside dental pain
• A foul taste or discharge near a tooth

Any pain lasting more than one to two days warrants a visit. Fever, facial swelling, or difficulty swallowing, along with a toothache, can indicate a spreading infection. That's a dental emergency requiring same-day care.

5. Cracked or chipped teeth

Cracks and chips can happen from biting into something hard, a sports injury, teeth grinding, or gradual wear over time. A small chip might seem purely cosmetic, but cracks can run deep and compromise the structural integrity of a tooth, creating an entry point for bacteria.

Warning signs

• Visible crack or chip on a tooth
• Pain or sensitivity when biting or chewing
• Swelling around a tooth or in the jaw
• A rough or jagged edge you can feel with your tongue
• Intermittent sharp pain that's hard to pinpoint

Any crack or chip should be evaluated. Minor chips may only need smoothing or bonding. Deeper cracks can cause severe pain and may require a crown, or a root canal if the damage reaches the pulp. A knocked-out tooth is a dental emergency and you should see a dentist within 30 minutes if possible.

6. Bad breath (halitosis)

Occasional bad breath after a meal is normal. Chronic bad breath, or halitosis, is a different issue. It's often a symptom of an underlying dental problem such as gum disease, untreated cavities, dry mouth, or bacterial buildup on the tongue. Mouthwash covers the smell temporarily but doesn't fix the source.

Warning signs

• Bad breath that persists despite regular brushing and flossing
• A persistent bad taste in the mouth
• Others commenting on your breath consistently

If bad breath is consistent and doesn't improve with thorough oral hygiene, see a dentist. A professional can identify whether gum disease, an abscess, dry mouth, or another dental issue is the cause.

7. Teeth grinding (bruxism)

Many people grind their teeth during sleep without realizing it. Bruxism wears down enamel, causes jaw pain and headaches, and can crack or loosen teeth over time. Stress, anxiety, and sleep disorders are common contributing factors. A partner noticing grinding sounds at night is often how people first become aware of it.

Warning signs

• Waking up with jaw pain, headaches, or earaches
• Teeth that appear flattened, worn, or chipped
• Tight or tired jaw muscles in the morning
• Increased tooth sensitivity

Bruxism is manageable. A custom nightguard protects teeth from further damage while you address the underlying triggers. If you're waking up with jaw pain or your teeth look like they've changed shape, bring it up with your dentist.

8. Dental abscess

A dental abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection, typically at the root of a tooth or in the surrounding gum tissue. It almost always causes significant pain and always requires professional treatment. Antibiotics can reduce the infection temporarily but don't resolve the underlying problem.

Warning signs

• Severe, persistent throbbing toothache
• Swelling in the face, cheek, or jaw
• Tender or swollen lymph nodes in the neck
• Fever
• A pimple-like bump on the gums near the affected tooth
• A foul taste or smell from the area

Immediately. If swelling is spreading toward the neck or throat, or you have difficulty breathing or swallowing, go to the emergency room rather than a dental clinic. For all other abscesses, call a dentist the same day. Denzy can match you with and other major Canadian cities.

9. Receding gums

Gum recession happens when gum tissue pulls back from the teeth, exposing more of the tooth root. It's a gradual process and most people don't notice until it's already progressed. Causes include gum disease, brushing too hard, genetics, and bruxism. Left untreated, it can lead to sensitivity, infection, and tooth loss.

Warning signs

• Teeth that appear longer than they used to
• Visible tooth roots near the gumline
• Small notches at the gumline you can feel with your tongue
• Increased sensitivity near the base of the teeth

Gum recession doesn't reverse on its own. A dentist can assess how far it's progressed, treat any underlying gum disease, and advise whether a gum graft is needed. Catching it early significantly expands your treatment options.

10. Dry mouth (xerostomia)

Dry mouth, or xerostomia, occurs when the salivary glands don't produce enough saliva to keep the mouth moist. Saliva is critical for neutralizing acids, washing away bacteria, and starting the digestive process. Without enough of it, the risk of cavities and gum disease rises considerably. Dry mouth is also a common side effect of many prescription medications.

Warning signs

• A persistent dry or sticky feeling in the mouth
• Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking
• Frequent thirst
• A dry or rough tongue
• Cracked lips or sores at the corners of the mouth

If dry mouth is affecting your daily life or appears to be getting worse, mention it at your next dental visit. Your dentist can assess whether it's contributing to new cavities or gum problems and may recommend treatment options or refer you to your doctor to review your medications.

How often should you see a dentist?