As good oral health is a key factor in keeping the rest of your body healthy, it's important to know the signs of any potential affliction that can lead to serious problems.
How healthy is your mouth? As good oral health is a key factor in keeping the rest of your body healthy, it's important to know the signs of any potential affliction that can lead to serious problems. Each week during September's “Healthy Aging Month,” Ellis Dental is sharing new perspectives and ways to allow you to show off your smile for many years to come. This week's tips:
10 Signs Your Mouth May Not be Healthy:
- Sharp tooth pain — if you have a sharp pain in one or more teeth when you bite down in the same spot, and it remains consistent or worsens, you may have tooth decay or cavities
- Throbbing tooth pain — persistent tooth pain, achy or otherwise, should not go untreated. It could indicate anything from grinding your teeth to a root infection
- Puffy gums — typically an early stage of gum disease, you want to treat this symptom by better oral care immediately
- Bigger teeth — do your teeth look larger than they used to? Your gums may be pulling away from your teeth or receding; another sign of gum disease
- Tender gums — if your gums are tender and remain that way for more than a week, it could be an early sign of gum disease
- Red gums — are your gums redder or more purplish than in the past? Healthy gums should be firm and pale pink. If you don't get it treated, gum discoloration can lead to gingivitis or other disease
- Blood — is there blood after brushing or flossing on a consistent basis? It could be an early sign of gum disease. Ask your dentist for more information
- Sores in mouth — if the sores last more than a day or two, visit a dentist for an evaluation
- Bad breath — this could be a sign of poor oral health habits or something worse, again it's good to check with a dentist
- Loose or falling-out teeth — go straight to a dentist, this is no joke, your mouth (and more) is likely in serious trouble
Any changes in your mouth should be monitored, and if anything lasts for more than one week, it's advised to contact a dentist for the next available appointment. Brushing for two minutes, twice daily and flossing regularly is a great way to keep your mouth healthy. Regular visits to the dentist is the best way to ensure a healthy mouth and smile.
About Ellis Dental
Founded in 2009 by Dr. Holly Ellis, Ellis Dental is a state-of-the-art dental practice dedicated to providing more than 1,900 patients with comprehensive dental care that not only focuses on attaining their optimal oral health, but also incorporates their overall well being. Ellis Dental serves patients of all ages, customizing all dental care to each individual patients’ needs. Ellis Dental is committed to using only the highest quality dental materials, operating best-in-class equipment and incorporating leading-edge techniques into every patient’s visit to ensure the best possible outcomes. The practice is located at 10296 Big Bend Boulevard, 63122. More information is available at: ellisdental.com and Facebook.