There are many symptoms that could be warning signs of potential concerns with your oral health. Here are a few possible issues that may warrant a visit to see your dentist.
By visiting your dentist early, it could help minimize any issues with your teeth and gums.
1. Feeling tenderness in your mouth
Any tender areas in your mouth, including your gums and cheeks, that don’t heal after a period of two weeks could be cause for concern. Often, if the pain goes away within a two-week period it may have been a burn from hot food, or an ulcer.
2. Bleeding gums
Bleeding gums while brushing and/or flossing is a common sign of gingivitis. As this is the first stage of gum disease, this should not be ignored. Healthy gums should not bleed when you brush and floss your teeth. We can go through your oral hygiene technique to ensure that all surfaces are being cleaned effectively.
3. Teeth sensitivity
Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures can be caused when enamel wears down, from a recent filling, gum recession, or due to a crack/decay in the tooth’s surface. Furthermore, if tooth sensitivity persists for more than three or four days and reacts to both hot and cold temperatures, it is best to see your dentist.
4. Toothache in specific spot
Pain or toothache in one specific spot. This can be due to infection of the tooth itself, or the surrounding gums. Thus, it’s better to have this checked out sooner than later so that it does not get worse.
5. Receding gums
Receding gums can occur for many reasons including clenching/grinding, aggressive tooth brushing and/or a lack of oral hygiene, specifically a lack of flossing. Therefore, routine dental visits are important so it can be treated at an early stage.
6. Dry mouth
Frequent dry mouth is an important risk factor for developing tooth decay and gum disease. If you are experiencing a dry mouth, it is important to mention it during your dental visit so it can be assessed.
You shouldn’t wait for symptoms to worsen before you book an appointment. Routine check ups and hygiene cleanings can help keep your teeth and gums healthy.