6 Signs your oral health might need attention
1. Bad Breath That Won’t Go Away
If your breath is still bad even after brushing and flossing, it could mean you have gum disease, tooth decay, or too much bacteria in your mouth. It can be upsetting, but it’s also a sign that something might be wrong.
2. Sensitive Teeth
If you feel sharp pain when eating ice cream or drinking hot coffee, your teeth might be sensitive. This can happen if your enamel is wearing down, your gums are receding, or you have decay. A dentist can find the cause and help fix it.
3. Bleeding Gums
Seeing blood when you brush or floss isn’t normal. It’s often an early sign of gum disease called gingivitis. If it’s ignored, it can turn into a worse problem called periodontitis. Sometimes, it might be due to brushing too hard but a visit to the dentist can help figure out the cause.
4. Dry Mouth
A dry mouth might not seem like a big deal, but it can cause problems like decay and gum disease because your saliva helps protect your teeth. If your mouth is dry all the time, talk to a dentist.
5. Tooth Pain
If your tooth suddenly starts hurting or keeps bothering you, don’t ignore it. It could be tooth decay, an infection, or something else that needs attention. Pain is your body’s way of telling you something is wrong, so get it checked.
6. Jaw Pain or Clicking
If your jaw hurts or makes a clicking noise, you might have an issue with your jaw joint (TMJ) or grind your teeth at night. This can lead to headaches, damaged teeth, and other problems. A dentist can suggest treatments like a mouthguard or exercises to help.