9 Symptoms of Common Dental Problems

How do you know when a visit to Knights Family Dentistry is necessary?

Dental problems are never pleasant, but taking care of your teeth, observing any unusual symptoms, and promptly visiting a dentist can easily prevent complications when problems occur. Here are some common symptoms of dental problems that may prompt a visit to your dentist:

1. Toothache

If your mouth or jaw hurts, it could indicate a cavity, gum disease, cracked or broken teeth, or an impacted tooth. If you have a toothache, you need to be evaluated by a dentist immediately to determine the cause of the pain and receive the proper treatment to prevent the problem from getting worse.

2. Tooth Sensitivity

If drinking hot or cold beverages causes your teeth to hurt, this sensitivity could be a symptom of a broken tooth, worn fillings or enamel, tooth decay, gum disease, or exposed root tissue. If you’re bothered by the sensitivity of your teeth, see a dentist for treatment options.

3. Mouth or Throat Swelling

Ororpharyngeal cancer affecting the lips, gums, lining of the cheeks, tongue, jaws, and throat often starts with a tiny white or red spot and swelling in the mouth or throat. If you have noticed any spots that bleed easily or do not heal, a visit to the dentist can ensure that mouth or throat cancer is ruled out or caught early.

4. Bleeding Gums

Sore or bleeding gums can be a sign that you are brushing too hard or are using too hard a toothbrush. They also can be a symptom of gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease. If your gums bleed regularly, you should make an appointment with your dentist to find out why.

5. Mouth Sores

Canker sores, cold sores, and moniliasis are all mouth sores that can vary in severity and cause. Generally, mouth sores can be the symptom of disease, infection, virus, fungus, or irritation. If your mouth sores persist for a week or longer, a dentist should examine them.

6. Receding gums

When gums begin to shrink away from the teeth, it is often a symptom of gum disease or poor dental hygiene, although smoking, family history, and teeth grinding can also contribute to the problem. If your gums show signs of recession, visit your dentist as soon as possible.

7. Bad Breath

Although bad breath can be the result of what you eat or a medical condition, persistent bad breath can also be a warning sign of gum disease. If you brush twice a day, floss, and brush your tongue but are still concerned about your bad breath, you should see a dentist.

8. Jaw Problems

If you are experiencing jaw pain or popping/clicking in the joint, possible causes include sinus issues, injury, arthritis, grinding of the teeth, gingivitis, or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. To diagnose your exact problem, a dentist will need to conduct a thorough exam.

9. Dry Mouth

Lack of saliva, or dry mouth, may be the side effect of certain medications, or the symptom of a medical disorder. Saliva is the mouth’s main protection against tooth decay, and your dentist will be able to recommend how to increase moisture in your mouth.

If it’s been six months or longer since you’ve seen a dentist, consider making an appointment as it’s important to keep up with twice-a-year cleanings. Keeping your teeth and gums in great condition can help avoid dental problems down the road. And, while few people look forward to a visit to the family dentist, certain symptoms may indicate that an appointment is in order. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms or have any concerns about your dental health, contact Knights Family Dentistry.

Call Us Text Us