What Your Dental Symptom Could Mean

Toothache

Toothaches usually indicate a cavity but they can also be a sign of gum disease. In some cases, toothache could also be a sign of an abscess or impacted tooth. If the pain is significant, you should visit your dentist so that they can examine it and sort a treatment plan.

Sensitive Teeth

If your teeth are painful when you drink hot or cold drinks, you might have sensitive teeth. This could be the result of tooth decay, fractured teeth, worn fillings, gum disease, worn tooth enamel or an exposed tooth root caused by gum recession. If you are concerned about the sensitivity, please contact your dentist who will be able to give you some advice.

Bleeding Or Sore Gums

Bleeding gums could be a sign of gingivitis, which is an early sign of gum disease. Or it could simply be a sign that you are brushing too hard or starting a new flossing routine. If your gums are continually bleeding, visit your dentist.

Mouth Sores

Mouth sores vary in their severity and causes. They could be caused by a disease or a disorder, infection from bacteria, viruses or fungus, or irritation from appliances such as braces or dentures.

Bad Breath

Bad breath can be caused by what you eat, not cleaning your mouth, dry mouth, smoking or other medical conditions. Persistent bad breath could be a sign of gum disease. To help reduce bad breath and prevent gum disease, make sure you are maintaining your oral hygiene routine, brushing twice a day and flossing daily. It is also important that you are brushing your tongue as it can hold onto food debris, causing bad breath. If you are concerned about what is causing your bad breath, you should visit your dentist.

Jaw Pain

Many things can cause jaw pain so it can be difficult to diagnose and find the cause. Possible causes include sinus problems, toothache, arthritis, teeth grinding, gingivitis or injury. Your dentist will conduct a thorough exam which may include x-rays to determine the source of the pain.

Dry Mouth

Dry mouth could be the symptom of a medical disorder or a side effect to certain medications. Saliva helps to prevent tooth decay as it washes away food and other debris and neutralises acids. Your dentist will help to diagnose the source of the problem and recommend ways to solve the issue.

Cracked Or Broken Teeth

A cracked or broken tooth can happen for a variety of reasons including brittle teeth, teeth grinding or injury. The crack may not be visible to the naked eye but if left untreated it can lead to more problems such as tooth decay. If you experience pain when chewing, you should see your dentist.

Stained Or Discoloured Teeth

Overtime, as you age, your teeth can become stained and change colour. This can be emphasised by certain foods such as tea and coffee. It can also be caused by a variety of other reasons such as smoking, aging, genetics, injury or certain medications. Whitening treatments could work for you but you should discuss this with your dentist first.

If you have any concerns about your oral health, please call us on 01723 670500 to book an appointment and a dentist will try to diagnose your problem.