If you know very little about dentistry (which is to be expected since you are not a dentist), you might feel overwhelmed when a change occurs within your mouth. You don’t know if it’s a bad change or a normal change. You don’t know what to do about it. You probably don’t know how to classify it either! Fortunately, we can quickly guide you toward clarity with some easy-to-understand categories (that will leave you feeling less confused by the onset of any type of change). Remember, of course, that if something seems wrong with your oral health, scheduling an appointment immediately is always the best decision you can make.

Hygiene-Related Issues

If something is wrong with your smile because you haven’t been brushing well, flossing well, or coming in for your professional dental cleanings, this is referred to as a hygiene-related issue. Your oral health is in decline because you’re not keeping it clean enough. This might include gum disease, tooth decay, infection, and related concerns.

Functional Problems

A functional problem is not one that happens because of your habits with keeping your teeth clean and free of plaque and debris. Instead, it’s one that involves the way your oral framework actually works. The bones, ligaments, muscles, and joints all provide you with the ability to open and close your mouth, so you can chew, talk, etc. When you’re dealing with a problem like TMJ disorder or bruxism, this is considered a functional oral health problem.

Esthetic Concerns

Sometimes, you’re simply dealing with damage that you can see when you look at your smile (like a minor chip or discoloration) but that doesn’t put your oral health at risk. This is just an esthetic issue that you may elect to repair with a cosmetic treatment.