4 Recurring Dental Health Issues You Shouldn't Ignore
Many dental health conditions start as minor issues that often go untreated. When certain problems start recurring, they may signal an underlying condition that requires the attention of a dentist. If you ignore these issues, they may jeopardise your dental health and overall wellness. With this in mind, here are four recurring dental health problems that you should stop ignoring.
Tooth sensitivity
It's normal to experience tooth sensitivity after drinking ice-cold drinks. However, recurring tooth sensitivity may signal a problem with your dental health. This condition occurs due to gum recession, worn tooth enamel, tooth decay or exposed nerves. Habitual teeth grinding and jaw clenching can also wear the enamel and cause sensitivity to hot and cold foods. Failure to address these issues can cause further wear to your enamel and increase the risk of tooth loss.
Tooth pain
Are you experiencing a toothache that comes and goes away? If so, treating it with over-the-counter medication may not work. Chronic toothache signals an underlying dental condition such as tooth decay. Tooth decay begins when bacteria erode at the enamel. Once they reach the dentine, the decay process speeds up, and without treatment, the bacteria enter the pulp.
The pulp contains tooth nerves and blood vessels, and once it is infected, you will experience tooth pain. Failure to seek treatment increases the chances of a severe tooth infection. This infection not only causes excruciating pain, but it can also make your tooth unsalvageable. A problem that would have necessitated mere tooth fillings may cost you your natural teeth.
Sore or bleeding gums
Incorrect brushing techniques can cause your gums to bleed. However, if you notice your gums are bleeding or sore even before brushing, you may have gum disease. This condition occurs due to poor dental hygiene habits that hurt the gums and encourage bacteria growth in your mouth.
If left untreated, gum disease can cause gum recession, whereby the soft pink tissue surrounding the teeth becomes damaged. With inadequate support, the teeth are more vulnerable to decay and sensitivity. In severe cases, gum disease may cause tooth loss. It may also cause a host of other health complications such as heart disease, diabetes and respiratory conditions.
Bad breath and dry mouth
Bad breath occurs due to various factors such as acid reflux, use of certain medication and chronic sinusitis. Consuming odour-inducing foods such as onions and garlic may also trigger bad breath. However, the odour resolves after a short period. Chronic bad breath and dry mouth are signs of dental conditions such as gum disease. Besides using mints, gums and mouthwashes to prevent bad breath, it's imperative to seek treatment for underlying dental health problems.
Pay attention to these recurring issues, as they could deteriorate your dental health. Visit a local general dentistry service for a checkup and treatment.