It can be easy to ignore new changes to your health, especially if they don’t cause any serious issues. However, you really should not ignore changes to your teeth and gums. If there is something new with your oral health, then you should make sure that you get the help you need. Here are some of the signs you should definitely not be ignoring. As well as what some of their causes may be.
You Have a New Toothache
Not every toothache is an emergency, but every toothache should at least be seen by your dentist. If you have a toothache, it’s usually due to gum disease, tooth decay, infection, or other issues. If you experience the symptoms of a fever alongside it. Then it’s a genuine medical emergency, as it may be due to an infection that has spread through the body. There are steps you can take to deal with the pain, such as using OTC painkillers and a saltwater rinse, but you should still seek treatment.
Your Gums are Red, Inflamed or Bleeding
These symptoms are all clear signs of gum disease, also known as gingivitis. This is amongst the most common issues that professionals like Sage Dental treat. Most people don’t notice it until their gums bleed while brushing. Gingivitis can make you much more prone to infections. It can also result in tooth loss if untreated. Routine cleanings from the dentist and switching to the right antibacterial mouthwash and toothpaste can make a huge difference.
You See Changes in Your Teeth
Over time, your teeth can become discolored, whether due to age, staining from food, tooth decay, or even damage to the nerve. If you’re not certain what the case is, then your dentist can help you get a good idea of the cause. In some cases, enamel erosion can also cause changes such as your enamel looking translucent, or starting to feel rougher to the touch. You want to stop this, as enamel erosion is irreversible.
Recurring Bad Breath
Most people can experience bad breath due to waking up in the morning without having the time to rinse. Or after eating a meal or drinking coffee. Using a mouthwash like Listerine can help you take care of the natural bacteria growth that typically causes halitosis. However, there are other causes that your dentist might be able to help you fix, too, such as a dead tooth.
An Unfamiliar Growth in the Mouth
If you feel a new growth in the soft tissue of the mouth, whether it’s the gums, tongue, or roof of the mouth, then you should see your dentist ASAP. Some of the causes, like fungal infections and canker sores, are not serious and may not require any treatment. However, it may be a symptom of oral cancer, and the sooner you move on that, the better.
Know when you need help from your dentist and, even more importantly when it’s a genuine dental emergency. Don’t ignore any changes to your oral health if you can.
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