Bleeding gums, jaw pain, loose teeth? These dental red flags signal serious health risks.
Serious dental problems can affect your overall health. In fact, neglecting gum or tooth care can lead to serious health problems. Therefore, you should visit your dentist at least twice a year. Failure to do so can lead to more serious problems that are difficult to treat. For example, gum problems and cavities are very common, but the infections they cause can affect your heart health. Recognizing the signs of dental problems can help provide prompt treatment. Here are some signs of serious dental disease that must be addressed immediately.
What Are Common Signs of Serious Dental Problems?
As mentioned, untreated problems in your mouth may have a significant impact on your overall health. In fact, your oral health is an important indicator of the condition of the rest of your body. In order to protect yourself, pay attention to your mouth and treat any dental health issue immediately. Here are the common signs of chronic dental problems.
Jaw and Mouth Pain
Like cold sores, these can be symptoms of stress and anxiety. A good dentist may find that the real source of your oral problems is sinus problems, toothaches, or gum ailments. For example, jaw discomfort or pain may signify a heart attack.
Sore and Bleeding Gums
Gums that bleed or cause soreness may be the result of a gum ailment becoming worse. This symptom is often more severe in those with underlying medical conditions like diabetes because diabetes reduces our resistance to infection. Some common signs of diabetes are gum inflammation, oral thrush, dry mouth, loose/lost teeth, and halitosis. Consult a dentist who can recommend a good gum treatment and help you take other necessary actions.
Loose or Lost Teeth
Teeth that fall out suddenly may be signs of a serious gum ailment. This can also be an early sign of osteoporosis which weakens bones by reducing bone density. By consulting a dentist regularly, eating a balanced diet, and exercising, you may be able to stop teeth from feeling loose.
Changes in Tooth Surfaces and Enamel
Erosion and translucent tooth enamel may be signs of a serious eating disorder or acid reflux. Excessive vomiting is often seen in bulimics and can cause other dental health problems such as:
- Sensitive teeth
- Swollen salivary glands
- Dry and cracked lips
- Loss of tooth enamel
- Dry mouth
Bad Breath or Halitosis
Bad breath may result from dry mouth or food or beverages you consume. But gum ailments like gingivitis may lead to the recurrence of this condition. If bad breath persists this may be due to some underlying health issue that calls for immediate attention. These conditions include chronic lung disease, a kidney or liver ailment, sinus infections, diabetes, and gastrointestinal issues.
Mouth Sores, Lumps, or Patches
Yellow or whitish canker sores or unusual patches inside your mouth might be harmless. However, only a dentist can give you a proper diagnosis.
Visit our dental office in Brampton. Let our dentists examine any new patches, lumps, or lesions you notice. These changes could stem from a common oral infection or signal something more serious.
Oral cancer is one of the most common cancers. It often begins as a tiny red or white spot or sore inside the mouth. Smokers, tobacco chewers, and heavy drinkers are at higher risk.
Common signs of oral cancer include:
- Hard spots or rough areas
- Bleeding sores that won’t heal
- Discoloured tissues
- Numbness
- Changes in how your teeth fit together
Monitoring your mouth, teeth, and gums for these signs is crucial. Your oral health is a vital window into your overall health. Identifying abnormalities early could save your life.
If you have any concerns about your oral health, please schedule a consultation today. We provide the highest quality care and treatment.
