Don’t Ignore These Dental Warning Signs!

Don’t Ignore These Dental Warning Signs!According to the American Dental Association, an estimated 100 million Americans do not go to the dentist on a yearly basis.  With a good oral care daily routine and visits to your dentist at least twice a year, most severe dental conditions can be prevented.  Poor dental health is associated with several diseases including heart disease.  Here are several dental warning signs that should result in you calling your local dentist as soon as possible.

Sensitivity and Toothache Issues

If your teeth feel sensitive with certain activities such as eating and drinking or brushing, it is typically due to the enamel being worth off your tooth or an exposed tooth root.  In some cases, it may be a symptom of more serious issues such as a tooth infection, a tooth has been damaged, or periodontal disease (gum disease).  No one should live with daily tooth sensitivity and fortunately, there are several treatments that are available.  So, be sure to call your dentist and schedule an appointment as soon as possible to have your specific issue resolved.

Swollen or Bleeding Gums

According to WebMD.com, there are several reasons why you may have bleeding gums.  It may be caused simply by brushing too hard or your toothbrush isn’t soft enough.  If you recently just started a flossing routine, it is not uncommon for your gums to bleed since they are not accustomed to flossing.  However, bleeding gums may also be a symptom of Gingivitis, Periodontitis, Diabetes, Leukemia, Thrombocytopenia, or Hemophilia.

Your Mouth Always Feels Dry

Dry mouth, also known as Xerostomia, occurs when the mouth’s saliva glands don’t produce enough saliva.  Some common causes of dry mouth include taking certain medications, smoking, autoimmune disease, cancer therapy, anxiety, depression, and smoking.  Prolonged dry mouth can increase the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.  Salvia plays an important role in cleaning your mouth from harmful bacteria.  It’s important to have the proper oral routine in place to help prevent poor oral health.  If you are experiencing dry mouth, it’s important to discuss you the issue with your local dentist so she can assist you with identifying the best dental treatment for you.

Persistent Canker Sore

Most canker sores will disappear in 1-2 weeks.  However, if you find you have a persistent canker sore it’s time to contact your doctor or dentist.  There are quite a few reasons why canker sores develop.  Canker sores may be triggered by diseases such a celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and even HIV/AIDS.

Your Gums are Receding

The most common reason for your gums to recede is due to gum disease.  It’s essential that you come in a minimum of twice per year for a dental cleaning.  Plaque can become trapped between your teeth and gums.  If the plaque is not removed, it will turn into tartar and irritate your gums.  If left untreated, your gums will swell, bleed, and begin to recede.

HPS Dental Care is Accepting New Dental Patients

At HPS Dental Care we focus not only on our dental patients’ teeth but also their overall health.  If you notice and of the warning signs we mentioned, give us a call 248-652-0024 as soon as possible to schedule a dental appointment and we can determine the best treatment for you.  HPS Dental is conveniently located on 24 Mile Road near Shelby Rd. in Shelby Township, MI.