Oral health is essential to our overall well-being, and dental issues can quickly become both immediate and painful. Common dental problems often arise from neglecting regular care from your dentist.
Unfortunately, some individuals delay seeking treatment until a problem becomes severe.
What starts as a minor issue can escalate into an urgent concern requiring immediate attention. Many patients seeking emergency dental services have likely been experiencing the problem for some time. Here are some early signs of dental trouble and their possible associations.
Tooth Pain
Persistent or prolonged tooth pain can indicate a serious underlying issue, even if the discomfort temporarily eases. Such pain often signals an infection and may be symptomatic of various conditions, including cavities, oral cancer, sinus infections, or in rare cases, a heart attack.
Throbbing pain in a single tooth might only require a filling, especially if treated promptly, as it is likely caused by bacteria. However, if the nerve is infected, more extensive treatments such as a crown, root canal, or other procedures might be necessary. Dentists typically use X-rays and thorough examinations to determine the best action.
They may sometimes prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers. A combination of treatments might be advised to address the root cause fully, allowing you to regain comfort and peace of mind. Don’t ignore pain that briefly disappears; this may mean the infection has temporarily reduced but is expected to return.
Bleeding Gums
Bleeding or sore gums could be a sign of worsening gum disease. This symptom tends to be more severe in individuals with underlying conditions such as diabetes, which weakens the immune system’s resistance to infections.
Common indicators of diabetes include gum inflammation, oral thrush, dry mouth, loose or lost teeth, and bad breath. Consulting a dentist for appropriate gum treatments and additional necessary steps is recommended. Ignoring these symptoms could put you in greater danger of not discovering hidden genetic issues like the CMT disease which can put you at a higher risk for gum disease and tooth loss.
Stained Teeth
Your teeth are similar to your laundry: the correct method can eliminate many stains. Various factors like foods, medications, tobacco, and injuries can cause your teeth to discolor. You have three whitening options.
Your dentist can apply a whitening agent combined with a special light. Alternatively, you can use a bleaching tray and gel at home, available from your dentist or over the counter. The easiest option, whitening toothpaste and rinses, only tackles surface stains.
Variations in Tooth Color
Teeth naturally yellow as you age due to the enamel layer wearing down, exposing more yellowish dentin beneath. However, if one or a few teeth are notably darker than the surrounding ones, it could indicate internal tooth damage. In such cases, teeth may discolor because of internal decay or trauma. Damage to the tooth root can also cause a change in tooth color.
Sores or Lumps
Lesions, lumps, and rough patches in the mouth are typical indicators of a person developing mouth sores or oral cancer. These symptoms are particularly prevalent among individuals who frequently use tobacco or alcohol.
Oral cancer, a serious illness, can often be treated successfully if identified and addressed early. Additionally, jaw swelling or difficulties with moving your tongue or swallowing are signals to consult your dentist immediately. Even for those who regularly visit their dentist and maintain good oral hygiene, unexpected dental issues can arise.
Endnote
Your oral health can reveal significant insights about your overall well-being, and recognizing abnormalities could be life-saving. If you have any concerns about your oral health, consult with expert dentists.
