We all experience changes to our health as we go through life, often with a new ache or pain to accompany them. However, when it comes to our oral health, it’s important that we’re never too permissive of new symptoms, especially when treating them now could save us a lot of trouble down the line. As such, here are five symptoms you should be sure never to ignore, and why it’s important to act on them sooner, rather than later.
Persistent Toothache
While the occasional tinge of sensitivity, especially when eating hot or cold food, might not be a sign that something is amiss, persistent pain may indicate cavities, infections, abscesses, or even underlying gum disease. Ignoring a toothache can lead to worsening pain, more complex dental procedures, or tooth loss. There are natural ways to alleviate the pain, but you should ensure you have an appointment set up at some point.
Bleeding Gums
If your gums are bleeding when you brush or floss, then this is typically an early sign of gum disease. It can occasionally be a sign that you’re flossing too aggressively, but it’s worth checking out regardless, as untreated gum disease can progress, leading to gum recession, loosening teeth, and bone loss. Typically, it can be treated with routine cleanings and adopting new oral hygiene habits, so starting early is easy.
Alignment Or Bite Issues
If you’re feeling a shift in teeth alignment or your bite, you should check with the dentist to see how significant the issue is. Misalignment can result in uneven wear on teeth, jaw pain, difficulty chewing, and even headaches. Early detection and treatment, like using teeth aligners, can get your teeth back into place a lot more easily. The longer you leave it, the more pronounced alignment issues can become and, as a result, the longer it might take to fully treat them.
Mouth Sores And Lumps
We can all get sores in the mouth that typically heal within a week or two. However, if they’re particularly persistent, or you have white patches, red spots, or even lumps, it’s worth getting it checked out. It could be an infection, irritation, or, in some cases, oral cancer. If you’re a smoker, drink alcohol, or have a history of HPV, your risk increases, so it’s important to check it out early, as early detection greatly improves the chances of successful treatment outcomes.
How To Manage Tooth Pain Naturally Before Seeing an Emergency Dentist
Persistent Bad Breath
Bad breath can be embarrassing and highly unpleasant if it comes with a metallic or bitter taste. However, if it’s consistent, it could be a sign of underlying issues, including gum disease, tooth decay, oral infections, dry mouth, or digestive problems. If your routine oral hygiene practices don’t take care of it, professional treatment may be necessary to handle the cause before it causes more damage.
You should make sure that you don’t just go to the dentist when you notice a new problem to deal with. Routine checkups and cleans can help you catch issues at their earliest, and ensure that your teeth are getting the care they need to stay in your mouth for as long as possible.
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