Ensuring the health of your teeth and gums starts with consistent preventive dental care. This involves daily habits like brushing and flossing, complemented by visits to our dental office in Chevy Chase for cleanings and checkups. However, a lot can happen in between these biannual checkups, so it’s important to know what to look out for so you can get help when you need it.
10 Things to Look Out For
- Toothache
Any tooth pain is a clear sign that something is wrong. Prompt dental attention can address minor issues such as a cavity before they become serious.
- Sensitive Teeth
If your teeth are suddenly sensitive to hot, cold, sweet, or sour foods, it might indicate enamel erosion or decay.
- Persistent Bad Breath
Ongoing bad breath, despite good oral hygiene, can signal gum disease or other oral health issues.
- Bleeding Gums
Bleeding when brushing, flossing, or eating is not normal and can also be an early sign of gum disease.
- Dry Mouth
Frequent dry mouth could indicate xerostomia, a condition that increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
- White Spots on Teeth
These spots are often early signs of tooth decay caused by acid erosion of the enamel.
- Gum Recession
While some gum recession is normal with age, significant recession can be a symptom of advanced gum disease, leading to exposed roots and increased decay risk.
- Loose or Shifted Teeth
Movement or shifting of teeth can indicate infection or bone loss and needs immediate attention to prevent tooth loss.
- Sores, Lumps, White Patches
While canker sores often heal on their own, persistent sores, lumps, or white patches in the mouth can signal serious conditions like fungal infections or oral cancer.
- Frequent Morning Headaches
Morning headaches can be a symptom of nocturnal bruxism, where you grind your teeth or clench your jaw during sleep.
The Importance of Maintaining Oral Health
Preventing dental issues such as these begins with good daily practices and regular dental visits. Here are some tips to keep your mouth healthy:
- Brush twice a day for 2 minutes using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush.
- Clean your tongue each time you brush your teeth.
- Floss daily to remove plaque between teeth.
- Discuss the use of dental sealants and fluoride rinses with your dentist.
- Visit our dental office in Chevy Chase twice a year
If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned, we welcome you to schedule an appointment at our Chevy Chase dental office.
