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What Are the Signs of a Serious Dental Problem?

Common Dental Problems

 

Oral health is vital to our overall well-being for both our physical and mental health. Common dental problems are often ignored or dismissed until we have our next scheduled dentist appointment.

Unfortunately, signs of dental problems can worsen over time without prompt treatment. Whether the issue causes discomfort, sensitivity, or pain there is no dental problem that cures itself.

In many cases oral diseases can have a profound affect on our health. Bacteria can enter our bloodstream and travel throughout the body causing other problems and maladies in your body.

Serious conditions that may occur include, but are not limited to, infection, cardiovascular disease, respiratory issues, kidney disorders and cancer. If you are suffering from any of the following symptoms or signs of dental issues, don’t hesitate to have it checked out by your local dentist.  

Sensitivity to Hot and Cold Foods

Sensitivity to hot or cold beverages and food is a common dental issue. Known as dentin hypersensitivity, this condition occurs when the layer of enamel on our teeth thins out. If underlying layer, dentin is exposed cause pain when in contact with hot or cold temperatures. The exposure may also be caused by receding gums.

Many people use anti-sensitivity toothpaste to ensure the pain and discomfort doesn’t become a large issue. In some situations, this is the solution, only after a dentist has performed a thorough checkup.

If you experience a sudden pain when consuming hot and cold food or drinks, it is important to have the source uncovered. It may be caused by tooth decay, damaged fillings, exposure of tooth roots, a fractured tooth or worn enamel all of which your dentist can recommend the appropriate long term treatment

Lumps in the Mouth

A single or cluster of lumps inside the mouth may indicate a serious oral disease. These bumps are different from the canker sores experienced from time to time. If lumps are present longer than two weeks, it can indicate an oral health concern. Whether pain or discomfort is felt, a new lesion or lump should be examined by a dental professional as soon as possible. 

Lumps can be caused by an infection, or an abscess within the gums or tooth. Oral cancer is another issue that can cause lumps or spots to appear. Have any lump checked by your dentist for immediate treatment, especially if you smoke, chew tobacco, or consume alcohol.

Sudden Pain While Chewing

There are not many pains in this world worse than a tooth pain. This is especially true with a sudden pain that occurs while eating. This may indicate an infection, a cavity, or even oral cancer. Even if the pain dissipates as suddenly as it first appeared, it can still be a serious problem. 

For instance, the early stage of an infection often presents as a tooth pain that worsens and then seems to go away for a period. If the pain is present when chewing, there may be a tooth that is cracked or damaged. Any pain while chewing should be brought to your dentist’s attention as soon as possible to prevent further problems.

Persistent Bad Breath

Halitosis, referred to as bad breath, can be embarrassing for some people and is often caused by the food we eat such as garlic. It can also be caused by several oral problems, some more serious than others. While diet and oral hygiene play a role in this condition, it could be caused by gum disease such as gingivitis or tooth decay.

It is important to know that persistent bad breath can indicate a severe underlying health disease such as gastrointestinal issues, a lung infection, liver disease, or kidney disease. Tell your dentist if you are finding halitosis is an issue to rule out oral diseases or get a recommendation for treatment.

Loose or Shifting Teeth

As adults, we should not have loose or shifting teeth, at least not without concern. A tooth that appears to be moving or wobbly should be inspected immediately by a professional. Oral diseases such as advanced gum disease can cause teeth to become loose or fall out.

If a tooth suddenly comes out without a traumatic incident, it may be due to a health condition known as osteoporosis. Once thought to be an older person’s disease, this bone disease causes bone density to be reduced in all parts of the body, including the mouth. There are treatments and medications that can help treat this disease/condition.

White Spots on Teeth

White spots on the teeth or near the gumline may be a sign of tooth decay. This warning is often seen long before the pain of an infection or cavity begins. Without proper treatment, the tooth decay will worsen and can cause the tooth to fracture or, in the worse case scenario, fall out. 

The tooth decay is caused by the harmful bacteria and plaque that settles on the teeth and gumline throughout the day and night. That is one reason why your dentist advises you to brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day.

A Constant Bad Taste in Your Mouth

Different from having bad breath, a bad taste in the mouth can be caused by infections, abscesses, some medications and diseases such as gingivitis. Poor oral hygiene can also cause a bad taste in the mouth. 

The bad taste may be described as salty, bitter, metallic, or foul. If you find you are experiencing these tastes even with regular brushing and flossing, contact your dentist for a checkup.

Book an Appointment with Princeview Dental Group Today!

With any of these or other signs of dental problems, contact us at Princeview Dental Group today! For more than 30 years we have been caring for our patients’ oral health with compassion in a judgement-free zone. Our team can provide regular dental care, cosmetic dentistry, oral surgery and emergency services.

We understand how important the teeth are to not only your physical health but to your mental health as well. Our goal is to have our patients be healthy, happy and confident about their smile. Our team offers practicle solutions for dental problems in a modernized setting. All new patients, young and older, are welcome to our recently renovated location, under the Crooked Cue Restaurant and Pub!

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