Seven Common Mouth Problems And When To See Your Dentist

We use our mouths every day. From eating to communicating, it’s safe to say our mouths are essential.

That’s why it’s so important to take care of them. Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily will prevent the majority of problems in your mouth.

When you do find yourself in pain, you’ll want to contact a caring dentist to help you find the cause so you can start feeling better.

For emergencies, such as a fractured or dislocated jaw, severe cuts to your tongue or mouth or an abscess that’s causing difficulty breathing or swallowing, go to the hospital right away.

1. Tooth Decay

This is very prevalent and one of the most common causes of tooth pain. Tooth decay or cavities are caused when the plaque that naturally forms on your teeth and the food you eat combine to make an acid that breaks down your tooth enamel.

There’s no at-home treatment for cavities, other than pain management until you can get in to see your dentist. However, they are highly preventable with regular brushing and flossing.

Call your dentist if you’re experiencing tooth pain.

2. Bad Breath

Halitosis can be very embarrassing. It can also be a symptom of many bigger problems. Persistent bad breath that isn’t relieved by using mouth wash and brushing may be indicative of a greater problem.

You should definitely see your dentist to rule out any underlying causes like gum disease, dry mouth, bacteria on your tongue or even oral cancer.

3. Gum Disease

Periodontal or gum disease is an infection of the gums surrounding the teeth. It has two stages: gingivitis, when it is still reversible, and periodontitis.

Periodontal disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss. Symptoms include bad breath, red, swollen, tender gums, sensitive teeth or painful chewing.

If you notice any of the symptoms, see your dentist right away. With treatment, you can limit and prevent further damage.

4. Tooth Erosion

Tooth erosion is when the actual structure of the tooth is damaged. Erosion of teeth is mostly caused by acid attacking the enamel.

The symptoms can be as simple as tooth sensitivity or as drastic as cracking in the tooth. Tooth erosion can also be easily prevented.

However, once started, you need to see a dentist for treatment and to prevent further damage.

5. Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is characterized by pain or discomfort when you eat or drink cold or hot food or drinks. Also, exposure to cold air or even pain when brushing and flossing.

There are over-the-counter treatments, such as desensitizing toothpaste.

6. Dry Mouth

A dry mouth once in a while is normal, a consistently dry mouth could be a reason for concern. Talk to your doctor about causes, such as side effects of medications or conditions like diabetes.

While having a dry mouth itself isn’t a problem, a lack of saliva can cause tooth decay or bad breath. If you do have a persistently dry mouth, you should frequently see your dentist to catch additional tooth decay early.

7. Abscess

There are several kinds of abscesses, but they’re all characterized by a collection of pus associated with a specific tooth. An abscess is usually caused by a bacterial infection in the pulp or soft tissue of the tooth.

They can be caused by a broken tooth, tooth decay or by periodontal disease. Treatment for abscesses usually includes draining the pus and a round of antibiotics.

Symptoms of abscesses include:

• Pain
• Swelling
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Redness
• Heat
• Fever
• Headaches or migraines
• Bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth

If you are showing these symptoms, contact your dentist right away.

Common dental emergencies are chipped, broken or cracked teeth as well as dental abscesses. Give your dentist a call if you have any of these.

But if you are in pain, don’t hesitate to call your dentist so you can get back to using your mouth for all the essential life activities.

The first thing people notice about us when they see us are our eyes and teeth. If you don’t have the perfect set of pearly whites, this can make you feel less confident and more self-conscious.

Teeth whitening is becoming increasingly popular, as the most common problem people have with their smiles is the discoloration. Learn some inexpensive and natural ways to whiten your teeth and give yourself a smile you deserve.

About the author

Kimi Christensen is a homeschooling mother of four. She enjoys reading, music, knitting and traveling with her family in their converted school bus.

Featured image by Daniel Frank on Unsplash