Brushing our teeth, flossing, and visiting the dentist every year may prevent toothaches, but we often don’t notice indicators that our mouths aren’t as healthy as they could be. These situations may prompt an emergency trip to the dentist, but some warning signs—like redness in our gums or halitosis—might not get noticed until they’re severe enough to cause an actual problem. To help you keep your mouth in tip-top condition, here are the warning signs that should never be ignored.
Warning Signs That Your Gums May Need Dental Intervention
1 - Gums that are red or swollen
This is a big sign that your gums might be infected or inflamed. An infection could be caused by a problem with your teeth or gums. If your gums are chronically inflamed or red, it may be a sign that you’re at a higher risk of getting gum disease. Your dentist can help you diagnose the issue and get treatment for any problems.
2 - Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
Gums that bleed when you brush or floss should definitely be checked out by your dentist. When gums are inflamed and bleed, it’s a sign that you need to see a dentist. A dentist can help determine if there is a problem with your teeth and gums and if you need to get treatment for a condition that is causing those problems.
3 - Loose teeth
Teeth that become loose may be a sign of periodontitis. This chronic gum disease can cause your teeth to become loose, yet the symptoms aren’t always very obvious. Your dentist can help determine if your teeth are loose and if the cause is periodontitis.
4 - Pain while eating or drinking
If you feel pain when eating or drinking, you may have some kind of infection or inflammation in your mouth. This often means that you have gingivitis or periodontitis. These are two forms of gum disease that can cause your gums to become painful and swollen.
5 - A change in the shape of your teeth
Teeth that change shape, or become crooked, may be a warning sign that you need to see a dentist. If you go to a dentist and he or she determines there is a problem with your teeth, then your dentist will likely recommend a restorative procedure.
6 - Excess Saliva
The more saliva you produce, the more you risk having an oral infection. If you produce excessive saliva, you may want to schedule a checkup with your dentist. When your gums are inflamed and infected, it is more likely that your saliva will become more abundant.
Conclusion
If you suspect you have some of the symptoms above, you should visit your dentist as soon as possible. The sooner you receive treatment, the better it will be for your oral health in the long run. The above warning signs should never be ignored. If you experience any of the above issues, schedule an appointment with your dentist right away. Your dentist will be able to examine and diagnose your condition and recommend treatment.
If you would like more information on your oral health, please contact us or schedule an appointment for a consultation at Dental House MI. We offer affordable dentistry and gum treatment options to help you attain optimal oral health.