It’s important not to ignore oral health issues because they indicate something is wrong that needs treatment! Let us know if you're experiencing any of the following:
1. Toothache
Sometimes a toothache is simply caused by a pesky popcorn kernel or piece of spinach stuck between your teeth. But other times, a toothache means you have advanced tooth decay or a tooth infection that requires root canal therapy. You may also have an impacted wisdom tooth.
2. Bleeding or Sore Gums
Sore or bleeding gums can be a warning sign of early-stage gum disease. Gingivitis, characterized by mild gum inflammation and irritation, is the initial and reversible stage of gum disease. Advanced gum disease can cause decay, tooth loss, and loss of jawbone density. Patients with diabetes and patients who use tobacco products are especially prone to gum disease because their bodies are less able to fight off inflammation and infection.
3. Mouth Sores
There are a number of different kinds of mouth sores with varying severity. For example, a canker sore or cold sore will eventually subside. But white patches in the mouth that look like cottage cheese could be a fungal infection that requires antifungal therapy. And persistent ulcers or lesions that are red, white, thickened, or rough could be the beginnings of oral cancer.
4. Chronic Bad Breath
It might seem odd that bad breath could be a sign of something more serious than eating too much garlic at lunch! Perpetually bad breath could mean you have tooth decay, gum disease, tonsil stones, or an underlying medical condition like a lung infection, gastrointestinal issues, liver disease, or kidney disease.
5. Jaw Pain
If you are experiencing chronic pain or clicking in your jaw, migraines, daytime sleepiness, and/or difficulty concentrating, you could be suffering from obstructive sleep apnea or nighttime bruxism (teeth grinding). Both these conditions reduce the quality of your sleep.
6. Sensitive Teeth
Sudden tooth pain when consuming hot and cold foods and beverages means you have sensitive teeth. This can be caused by tooth decay, exposed tooth roots from receding gums, fractured teeth, worn tooth enamel, and damaged fillings. Though an anti-sensitivity toothpaste can reduce your discomfort, you want to determine its cause to protect your other teeth from the same sensitivity.
Your Dentist in Fredericksburg, VA
Are you affected by any of these dental issues? Contact us today to schedule an appointment at North River Dental Care. Dr. Bailey can examine your mouth and determine the best way to get your oral health back on track.
