Some dental conditions like pale gums, bad breath, and red gums can be signs of gum disease. Gum disease ranges from unusual gum swelling, also known as gingivitis, to tissue and bone destruction. In worst cases of gum diseases, you may even lose teeth.
Here’s about some of the common dental problems:
Gingivitis is mild gum disease. Good oral health habits — brushing twice daily, flossing every day, going for regular dental checkups — can reverse gingivitis.
Plaque, when not removed hardens and forms tartar. This leads to increased bleeding and a more serious gum disease, called periodontitis. If periodontal disease is not treated, the gums, bones, and connective tissues that support the teeth are destroyed.
Per the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, some individuals are at a higher risk of gum diseases than others. Risk factors for gum disease include:
● Genetic predisposition
● Ageing
● Diabetes
● Hormonal changes in women and girls
● Medication
● Other illnesses like cancer treatment and AIDS
● Smoking
Here are a few lifestyle tips and home remedies you can follow:
● Brush your teeth twice daily
● Use a soft toothbrush
● Replace a toothbrush every three months
● Floss every day
● Use an over-the-counter mouth rinse to reduce plaque
● Visit your dentist for dental cleanings and checkups
● Avoid smoking
The oral symptoms could be telling you a lot about your health
Unhealthy Gums May Cause Bad Breath
Everyone experiences stinky breath but brushing and flossing can nip bad breath in the bud. When it doesn’t, it could be a sign of advanced gum disease. It is important to consult a dentist before the condition ruins healthy teeth.
Most of the time, the biggest bad-breath culprit is diet. Besides, uncontrolled diabetes, a high-protein diet, and alcoholism can also lead to this condition.
Swollen Red Gums? Here’s What They Mean
Having swollen gums is another sign of gum disease. A dentist or a dental hygienist will be able to tell if you have gum disease. Even if your swollen gums feel fine, they might bleed during brushing. Besides swelling, dental health problems can also cause red gums.
That Sour Taste in Your Mouth could be GERD
A sour taste in the mouth — mistaken for bad breath — could be a sign of GERD, especially if accompanied by a sore throat and a hoarse voice. If you suspect that you have GERD, get treated as needed.
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth or xerostomia is a common oral condition. There are more than 425 drugs that have dry mouth as a side effect. It is also a common symptom of scleroderma, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and Sjogren’s syndrome. If you have chronic dry mouth, talk to a dentist.
Are Your Loose Teeth Trying to Tell You Something?
A loose tooth may be a sign that you have unhealthy gum or are suffering from gum disease. Bacteria growing below the gum line can cause bones and tissues to break down, resulting in the separation of teeth from gums. As more tissue and bone gets destroyed, the higher are the chances of losing healthy teeth. Loose teeth may also indicate infection.
Mouth Sores
Mouth sores are common and the chance that your sores are signalling cancer is low. To be safe, see a dentist if any sore in your mouth does not heal after two weeks.
Brown or Whites Lines on Your Child’s Teeth
Children who are exposed to excessive amounts of fluoride can develop white or brown lines across their teeth. Other signs include diarrhoea, nausea, and vomiting. Even though safe in small amounts, if you think your child has consumed a large quantity of fluoride toothpaste, reach out for poison control.
To protect your teeth, limit your fluoride exposure. Try keeping fluoride toothpaste in a safe place, and supplement fluoride only when a dentist recommends it.
Burning Mouth Speaks About Your Health
If you are experiencing a scalding sensation in your lips, tongue, or mouth, it can be a burning mouth syndrome. The cause may be several medicines, oral conditions, or other health issues, such as fungal infections in the mouth, nutritional deficiencies, and hormonal problems in women.
So, if you have any of the symptoms, don’t delay. See a specialist at the earliest.
If you are looking for a dentist, HPS Advanced Dental Care would love to see you. Dr. Heather is gladly accepting new patients.
We are located at 4741 24 Mile Rd. Shelby Township, MI 48316, and we can be reached at (248) 652-0024. We look forward to meeting you!
