Top 10 Dental Symptoms

From time to time, we may all experience dental issues that we may not quite understand. Many dental symptoms may seem harmless at first but could develop into something far more serious. Below you will find some of the more common dental symptoms that can arise and what they might mean for your dental health.

Common Dental Symptoms

Sensitive Teeth.

This can start out as a slight twinge of discomfort when eating hot or cold foods (or drink), eating sweets, or while brushing. The sensitivity may subside quickly or become increasingly more painful. Sensitive teeth can be due to tooth decay, worn down enamel, tooth fractures, periodontal disease, or gum recession. Whatever the reason, it is important to have the sensitivity checked by a dentist to assess whether further might be necessary . There are many treatments for sensitive teeth.

Bleeding Gums.

This is a sign of the early stages of gum disease also known as gingivitis. Gums that bleed should not be ignored.  Many often make the mistake that brushing, flossing, or their dental cleaning caused the bleeding, this is rarely the case. Healthy gums do not bleed during hygiene procedures.  If caught early enough, gingivitis can be reversed with proper professional help and good at home dental hygiene.

Pain In Teeth.

Toothaches can occur from a variety of causes. These can include tooth decay, fractured teeth, infected teeth, or even periodontal disease. Any toothache should be examined by a dentist to see why it is happening.

Halitosis (Bad Breath).

This can be a troubling symptom for many as it makes us feel socially embarrassed. Bad breath can be caused by any number of things including poor dental hygiene, periodontal disease, smoking, uncontrolled diabetes, and even due to some medications we may be taking. If the bad breath persists after professional cleanings and improved at home care it is important to see your dentist to further evaluate the root cause of your bad breath.

Oral Ulcers.

These can be quite painful with causes ranging from infection (bacterial, viral, or fungal) to apthous ulcers (canker sores), or irritations from dental appliances. It is recommended that any sore lasting more than 5-7 days should be checked by your dentist to ensure your health.

Clicking Noises, Jaw Pain, and Dislocation of Jaw.

Temperomandibular Joint disorders can be very difficult to diagnose and treat. If you experience any type of jaw pain it is important to seek professional help as soon as possible to figure out the source of the problem.

Discolored Teeth.

A tooth discoloration could be the sign of a tooth that is dying due to trauma or infection. If the discoloration is more widespread it could be caused by ingestion of staining foods like coffee or teas. The discoloration needs to be assessed and possibly radiographed to determine the cause and decide upon treatment.

Dry Mouth. 

Salivary flow is extremely important to maintain dental health. Our saliva acts to wash over our teeth and gums constantly cleaning and maintaining the proper pH balance in the mouth. Dry mouth (xerostomia) can be a symptom of many different health issues and medications. Your dentist can help you find a solution to dry mouth issues.

Loose Teeth.

Noticeable movement of teeth is a sign of attachment loss of connective tissues. Whether due to trauma, infection, or periodontal disease, mobility of a tooth needs to be checked by your dentist.

Swelling.

Infections of the mouth can and usually will exhibit swelling as the bacteria multiplies in the mouth. Dental swelling can be life threatening and should be evaluated immediately as to the cause.

Cracked or Fractured Teeth. 

Damaged teeth can be caused by trauma or brittle tooth decay. Some cracks are so small they 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.

Dental Symptoms Conclusion

Being informed and educated regarding possible dental symptoms will give you an advantage in knowing when to schedule an appointment with your dentist. Generally, the earlier you receive dental treatment for dental symptoms, the better off you will be. Maintaining a healthy oral environment requires your attention to dental symptoms, and proper treatment in a timely fashion. It is best to consult with a dentist even if you feel the symptom might be minor.