We all have had to see the dentist for more than a check-up. Dr. Sally Kashani, Hollywood Dentist, reveals the top ten dental symptoms people experience and what each symptom could mean about your dental health.
Common Dental Symptoms
1. Toothache- Most toothaches are caused by cavities, but they may also be an early sign of gum disease. Toothaches should be checked by a dentist immediately to determine their cause, prevent further pain, and protect your teeth.
2. Sensitive Teeth- Toothaches which occur when eating hot or cold food may be a sign of sensitive teeth. Teeth become sensitive from decay, worn enamel, fractured teeth, worn fillings, gum disease, and even by exposed root due to gum recession.
3. Bleeding or Sore Gums- The early stages of gingivitis begin with bleeding and sore gums, however, these symptoms can also be a result of brushing too hard or flossing too little. If bleeding persists or if blood flow is more than normal, consult our office.
4. Mouth Sores- Mouth sores can be very painful and have many different causes. They can be caused by bacteria infection, viruses or fungus, or irritation from braces and chipped teeth. Any sores lasting a week or longer should be checked by your dentist.
5. Bad Breath- Halitosis is unpleasant and may be caused by what you eat, insufficient cleaning, dry mouth, smoking, and some medications. Be sure to brush twice a day and floss daily to prevent bad breath. If it persists, schedule an appointment for an exam to find its cause and proper treatment.
6. Jaw Pain or Popping/Clicking of the Jaw- The cause of jaw pain can be more difficult to diagnose as it can be a result of sinus problems, teeth grinding, arthritis, injury, gingivitis, or even TMJ. If you experience jaw pain, be sure to schedule an appointment with our office for a thorough examination to find the source of problem.
7. Dry Mouth- Saliva is important in preventing tooth decay and maintaining the proper PH balance in the mouth. Dry mouth may be caused by a disorder or it can be a side effect of some medication. Contact us for more information on how you can maintain more moisture and prevent dry mouth.
8. Oral Piercing Infection- The mouth is home to many kinds of bacteria, making piercings more prone to infection. If you experience swelling, pain, fever, chills, or a red appearance around the site of the piercing, contact your dentist or physician immediately.
9. Cracked or Broken Teeth- Damaged teeth can be caused by injury or brittle teeth. Some cracks cannot be detected even with X-rays, but it is important to have cracked teeth checked by a dentist to ensure that no additional damage or decay will occur.
10. Stained or Discolored Teeth- Teeth stains occur slowly over time and become more obvious with the consumption of drinks like coffee and tea. They may also yellow over time due to smoking, genetics, and some medication. Whitening treatment can help decrease the yellow appearance of teeth.
Always be consciously aware of your oral health, as this will help you easily recognize any of these symptoms. Early treatment of the causes of these symptoms can help protect your teeth from serious long term problems.
Many on this list may seem minor, but it never hurts to get checked by a dentist. If you experience any of these symptoms, make sure to call our office and schedule an appointment with Dr. Kashani to detect the problem and receive proper treatment.