Dr. Moses and the dental staff are absolutely phenomenal! From the moment I walked in, they made me feel incredibly comfortable and at ease. Their professionalism and attention to detail truly shine through in their work. Thanks to them, my smile has truly come to life! I highly recommend their services to anyone in need of dental care. Thank you, Dr. Moses and team, for your exceptional care and expertise!
When it comes to oral health, minor issues can quickly become big (and costly) concerns if left untreated. The good news? Your mouth gives you early signs of dental problems before things get serious. The trick is knowing what to look for and acting early.
Just like regular car maintenance prevents major breakdowns, paying attention to the early signs can save you time, money, and discomfort down the road. Here are five signs you should never ignore and what to do if you notice them.
1. Bleeding Gums
Do your gums bleed when you brush or floss? While it doesn’t always indicate a problem, it can often indicate gum disease. Bleeding gums can point to an infection. Left untreated, it can lead to more serious issues like receding gums, bad breath, and more.
What to do:
- Don’t stop flossing! Keep flossing but be more gentle in and around your gumline. Regular flossing can help reduce gum inflammation.
- Schedule a dental visit. Your dentist can check for early-stage gum disease and recommend treatments to prevent progression. They can also share tips to improve your at-home routine if that happens to be what caused the bleeding.
- Improve your oral care routine by using an alcohol-free, antibacterial mouthwash.
2. Tooth Sensitivity
If hot, cold, or sweet foods suddenly make you wince, your teeth might be trying to tell you something. Sensitivity can be a sign of damage, cavities, or even an exposed tooth root from receding gums. While occasional sensitivity is normal, ongoing discomfort is a red flag.
What to do:
- Use a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth to help strengthen enamel.
- Avoid overly acidic foods and drinks (like soda and citrus) that can wear down enamel.
- Visit your dentist. Early intervention can prevent the need for more complex treatments.
3. Persistent Bad Breath
Bad breath isn’t just an embarrassing problem. It can also be a sign of underlying dental issues. If you’re brushing and flossing regularly but still struggling with bad breath, you might have gum disease, cavities, or an infection.
What to do:
- Stay hydrated! A dry mouth allows bacteria to thrive, leading to bad breath.
- Make sure you’re cleaning your tongue. Bacteria buildup here is a major cause of odor.
- See your dentist to rule out gum disease, cavities, or other oral health concerns.
4. A Small Toothache
That tiny twinge of pain when you bite down? It could be a cavity in the making. Dental pain rarely goes away on its own. By the time it becomes severe, you might already need a more complex solution. Catching problems early means simpler, less expensive fixes.
What to do:
- Don’t ignore ongoing mild discomfort. Call your dentist to schedule an exam.
- Cut back on sugary foods, which feed cavity-causing bacteria.
- Stick to regular cleanings so cavities can be caught before they become painful.
5. A Loose or Shifting Tooth
Your adult teeth should never feel loose or like moving out of place. If you notice a change in how your teeth fit together, it could be a sign of advanced gum disease, bone loss, or even a hidden infection.
What to do:
- Call your dentist immediately. Early treatment can sometimes save a loose tooth.
- Avoid chewing on hard foods until you get checked out.
- Stay on top of regular dental visits to monitor your gum and bone health.
Your mouth has a way of letting you know when something isn’t right. Don’t ignore it! Paying attention to the early signs of dental problems can prevent costly treatments later. Concerned about your oral health? Call your dentist today to book a checkup and catch problems before they escalate!
Call Seabrook Family Dental at 301-215-2548 for an appointment in Lanham, MD. You can also make an appointment online.