Dental disease is a problem that commonly affects many people. It causes much pain and discomfort. Most people who experience the issue ignore the early warning signs, allowing them to progress into severe forms. You can prevent dental disease from advancing and leading to long-term oral damage through early detection and treatment.
Bad Breath
One common early sign of having a dental disease is bad breath. It could be due to tooth decay, gum disease, or odor from food particles stuck between teeth. One could also have a problem with oral hygiene if they have persistent bad breath.
Flossing and brushing teeth often help prevent odor from the mouth. But if the problem persists, it is best to see your dentist for appropriate treatment.
Bleeding Gums
You may have gingivitis if you experience bleeding gums. It is the early stage of gum disease and occurs due to plaque building up, which causes inflammation and bleeding in your gums. Untreated gingivitis progresses to periodontitis, which can lead to tooth loss.
It is crucial to see your dentist as soon as you can if you notice bleeding gums. It is possible to reverse and prevent gingivitis through regular dental cleanings and good oral hygiene.
Tooth Sensitivity
Another early warning sign of dental disease is tooth sensitivity. You may have gum disease or tooth decay if you experience sudden discomfort or pain whenever you drink or eat something cold, hot, acidic, or sweet. Teeth grinding can also cause tooth sensitivity. It wears down the tooth enamel. Consult your dentist immediately for a diagnosis and treatment if you often experience tooth sensitivity.
Loose Teeth
Tooth decay or advanced gum disease can loosen your teeth. Gum disease often causes your gums to recede, exposing your teeth roots. The exposed roots become susceptible to decay, and the tooth structure weakens and becomes loose.
See your doctor immediately if you notice you have loose teeth. They will diagnose your problem and help prevent tooth loss by giving appropriate treatment.
Swelling or Pain in the Mouth
You may have a dental abscess if you have pain or swelling in your mouth. It is a bacterial infection that can form in your gum or tooth.
Dental abscess causes severe discomfort and pain. They can spread to different parts of your body. See your dentist immediately if you experience swelling or pain in your mouth. They will drain the abscess and help prevent further infection by prescribing antibiotics.
Receding Gums
One significant sign of gum disease is your gums pulling away and exposing your tooth roots. It results from brushing your teeth too hard or not using a toothbrush with soft bristles. See your dentist for a dental examination if you have receding gums. They will diagnose the issue and recommend the best treatment to prevent your gums from pulling away.
Changes in Teeth Appearance
Noticing changes in the appearance of your teeth, such as chipping or discoloration, could be a sign of dental disease. Factors such as tooth decay, smoking, or medication can cause discoloration. On the other hand, chipping can be due to tooth decay or trauma.
See your dentist if you notice any changes in how your teeth appear. Your specialist will help diagnose the issue and recommend the ideal treatment to help restore the appearance of your teeth and smile.
For more about dental disease, visit Progressive Dental & Associates at our office in Matteson, Illinois. Call 708-980-0110 to book an appointment today.
