From the odd twinge when you sip tea to bleeding gums or missing teeth — dental issues come in all forms. The good news? Most problems can be fixed quickly and effectively with the right care. At Portland Street Dental, we see these common concerns every week, and we know how to put things right before they turn serious.
Whether you’re dealing with discomfort, cosmetic concerns, or simply overdue for a check-up, this guide walks you through the most common dental problems — and exactly how we treat them.
1. Tooth Decay (Cavities)
Tooth decay is one of the most widespread dental problems in the UK. Caused by plaque and sugar interacting to produce acid, it slowly erodes the enamel and can lead to pain, infection, or tooth loss if ignored.
How we fix it:
Small areas of decay are repaired using composite (white) fillings. For larger cavities or damaged teeth, we may recommend crowns or inlays. Early detection is key — which is why routine dental check-ups matter.
2. Gum Disease
Bleeding when brushing, sore gums, and persistent bad breath are early signs of gum disease. Left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis — a leading cause of tooth loss.
How we fix it:
Mild cases are managed with scale and polish treatments and improved oral hygiene advice. Advanced cases may require deep cleaning (root planning) or specialist periodontal care. We’ll tailor treatment based on the stage of the disease.
3. Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity can feel like a sharp shock — often triggered by cold drinks, sweet foods, or even a blast of air. It’s usually caused by enamel wear, receding gums, or tiny cracks in the tooth.
How we fix it:
We’ll identify the cause and recommend a treatment plan — this may include desensitising toothpaste, fluoride applications, or protective fillings to seal exposed dentine.
4. Chipped or Cracked Teeth
Cracks or chips might seem minor at first, but they can allow bacteria in — leading to decay or even infection. They also impact the look and function of your smile.
How we fix it:
We use composite bonding to repair small chips quickly and naturally. More severe cases may require veneers or crowns, depending on the extent of the damage.
5. Crooked or Misaligned Teeth
Crooked teeth aren’t just a cosmetic concern. They can affect bite function and make cleaning more difficult, increasing your risk of decay and gum problems.
How we fix it:
We offer both Invisalign clear aligners and traditional orthodontic options. Invisalign is especially popular for adults looking for a discreet, removable solution with minimal impact on daily life.
6. Stained or Discoloured Teeth
Staining from coffee, wine, smoking, or ageing can dull your smile over time. While it’s mostly cosmetic, it can still affect confidence.
How we fix it:
Professional teeth whitening lifts deep stains safely and effectively. We offer both in-practice treatments for quick results and home whitening kits for convenience.
7. Missing Teeth
Missing teeth can affect everything from how you chew to your jaw alignment and self-esteem. Leaving gaps can also lead to shifting teeth and bone loss.
How we fix it:
We offer multiple options depending on your needs: dental implants for permanent results, bridges for fixed replacements, or dentures for full or partial loss. We’ll guide you through the pros and cons of each.
Don’t Ignore the Signs — We Can Help
Dental problems rarely go away on their own — but almost all of them can be fixed with the right care. At Portland Street Dental, we offer clear explanations, modern treatments, and a friendly team who put your comfort first.
