Life is busy, and adults put off preventive dental care for various reasons. It’s quite tempting to put off a minor issue until there’s more time to deal with it, but certain warning signs should not be dismissed. By catching the below issues early on, patients can save money and time.
Bleeding With Flossing and Brushing
It’s not normal to see blood in the sink or on a toothbrush. In many cases, it indicates the development of periodontal disease, which occurs when the tissues holding the teeth in place become infected. If left untreated, gum disease may cause bone degradation and tooth loss. Other signs of early gum disease include tender, swollen, and red gums or discharge between the gums and teeth.
Receding Gums
While a certain amount of gum recession is part of aging, it may be a warning sign of periodontal disease. No matter the cause, receding gums expose the roots of the teeth, increasing the risk of pain, infection, decay, and tooth loss. When it is started early, treatment may stop or reverse the damage.
Dry Mouth
Healthy mouths are lubricated and moistened by saliva, which neutralizes plaque acids and removes food particles. If a patient’s mouth feels abnormally dry, however, it may be a sign of an illness. A dentist in New Hartford, NY can find out what’s causing dry mouth and recommend ways to protect the teeth and restore the mouth’s natural moisture.
Shifting or Lose Teeth
A person’s adult teeth should last an entire lifetime. If a patient notices a widening gap or any sort of movement, it might indicate bone loss or infection. Patients should look for changes in the fit of dentures or the way teeth come together when biting.
Sores and Bumps
Canker sores clear up within a couple of weeks, but other oral sores should be treated. Candidiasis or thrush may appear as white lesions on the inner cheek, tonsils, tongue, or roof of the mouth. A dentist can prescribe medicines to treat thrush and restore the patient’s mouth to a healthy condition.
These signs, among others, shouldn’t be ignored. Oral sensitivity and pain may have a variety of causes, and only a dentist in New Hartford, NY can find out what’s causing the pain, treat underlying issues, and help patients avoid problems. Call the Business Name to schedule an appointment.
