Oral health is something that we usually put on the backburner; it is only when things get worse, you start keeping your dentist on speed dial. Similar to the way you take care of your body and mind by exercising and meditating, you also need to be cautious about your oral health and hygiene. You need to pay attention to your teeth, jaw, gums, and tongue – it is your mouth that starts showing early symptoms of underlying diseases. Hence, it is advised to get an oral health check-up done at least twice a year.

Here are 10 oral health warning signs discussed below, and never compromise your dental hygiene.

1. Bleeding gums – If you start noticing blood in your sink while brushing or flossing, it is better to immediately seek the dentists help. Bleeding or swelling of gums is the first oral health sign which cannot be ignored. A large number of bacteria present in your mouth can cause gum disease and are common in people with conditions like diabetes. Inflammation in the mouth can lead to gingivitis and periodontitis. Other major diseases linked to bleeding and swelling of gums are stroke, atherosclerosis, heart disease, and erectile dysfunction.
2. Jaw and mouth pain – Stress is the root cause of several mental and physical disorders and is often linked to mouth and jaw pain. You need to consult your dentist to help you identify the main source of jaw and mouth pain. Sometimes the discomfort can be treated if it is a simple toothache, wisdom teeth eruption, gum disease, or sinus problem. You need to be attentive to the pain in your jaw, as it could also mean that you are having a heart attack. So be vigilant and help save you and your loved one’s life.
3. Bad breath – Your mouth smells when you wake up or after eating a spicy meal or drinking aerated sugary drinks. Brushing, flossing, and tongue scraping can help eliminate the smell. You need to see your dentist if bad breath persists, even after rinsing. Bad breath can occur due to cavities, gum disease or tooth decay, kidney or liver disorder, lung infection, and diabetes, and are other oral health signs which are definitely not worth ignoring.
4. Loose teeth – Unexpected falling of teeth is a major sign of gum disease. If you have a loose tooth,  see your dentist immediately. Tooth loss also indicates osteoporosis – it decreases bone density and weakens them and is more prevalent in women. Eat a well-balanced diet, go for regular dental check-ups, and exercise regularly to avoid any serious injuries in the future.
5. Mouth sensitivity – Do you feel pain or experience some kind of sensation while eating something too hot or cold? It might indicate a tooth cavity, infection, or excessive damage to your tooth or gum. Do not settle for numbing gels or over the counter medicines, consult your dentist before the problem becomes severe.
6. Toothache – Toothache can vary from mild to severe, and sometimes it will not go away. No matter the degree of pain, it should be addressed at the earliest. Toothache, if left unattended, can cause nerve damage or even loss of the tooth. There can be several other reasons for toothache food trapped between teeth or gums, or an infection at the root of the tooth, and ignoring them could cost you later!
7. Mouth ulcers and sores – If sores, ulcers, or unusual patches appear suddenly and take time to heal, they are a matter of grave concern. Mouth sores and ulcers usually heal within a week, but if the healing process is taking longer than usual, it might suggest a condition of diabetes. Similarly, sensitive spots, patches, or lumps might indicate oral cancer. If you see any of these signs, do not ignore them, speak with your dentist in West Des Moines for an appropriate cure.
8. Tooth surface and enamel change – If you notice any change in your tooth surface or enamel, you should see your dentist. Eating disorder or acid reflux can cause the erosion of tooth surfaces and enamel. Excessive vomiting might give way to other oral health issues like dry and cracked lips, swollen salivary glands, dry mouth, loss of tooth enamel, and sensitive teeth. Get the right treatment at the right time.
9. Dry mouth – When there is a decrease in the production of saliva, it leads to the problem of dry mouth or Xerostomia. Salivary gland disease, stress, diabetes, or autoimmune disorders may be linked to dry mouth, so try not to overlook this symptom and seek dental help.
10. Change in the color and texture of tongue – The most common tongue infection is thrush or oropharyngeal candidiasis. It is a medical condition wherein a yeast-like fungus appears as a white lesion on the surface of the tongue and overgrows in the mouth or back of the throat. Thrush is a result of excessive smoking, stress, HIV, cancer, diabetes, weak immunity, pregnancy, medications, or dentures. Change in the tongue is a serious oral health problem, do not ignore it. 

Take some time out from your busy schedule and go for a regular dental examination every six months and take care of your dental health. Do not ignore the warning signs of oral health, visit our leading dentist in West Des Moines at Plaza Dental Group, and get the desired treatment and care.

Plaza Dental Group

Plaza Dental Group is a leading group of dentists in Des Moines, IA that provides high-quality dentistry in a comfortable and stress-free environment. We have a team of caring and highly-skilled professionals that uses state-of-the-art technology and delivers excellent service to the patients. Request an appointment today!