7 Common Signs of Tooth Decay and Gum Disease You Shouldn't Ignore

Proper dental care is critical for avoiding gum infection and tooth decay. Recognizing the indicators of decaying teeth and gum disease, on the other hand, is critical for early identification and treatment. Regular dental examinations play an important role in detecting these problems before they progress too far. Here are seven major warning signals to be on the lookout for:

1. Persistent bad breath
Bad breath is sometimes a completely normal occurrence. Poor oral care, nutrition , alcohol consumption, and smoking can all contribute to it. Lingering bad breath, however, may signify damaged teeth and gums. This could be an indication of oral infections or other underlying health issues. If this is the case, consult a dentist for an accurate diagnosis to discover the specific reason.

2. Bleeding and swollen gumsDo your gums feel tender and easily irritated? Do they bleed after brushing? These symptoms may indicate gum problems that you might not be aware of. Healthy gums have a light pink color and should not be sensitive to touch.

Inflamed gums that bleed easily require attention. Painful, swollen, and red gums could be signs of gingivitis or another gum condition. Early-stage gum disease and gingivitis can be effectively treated, but if left untreated, they can lead to significant dental and overall health issues.

3. DiscolorationWhite patches on your teeth might be an indication of very early tooth decay. White spots might be the result of too much fluoride exposure during childhood, but they can also be a sign of decalcification or mineral loss. Your tooth may develop a brown or black spot as the cavity worsens. Letting an experienced dentist asses that discoloration is usually a good idea.

4. Pain When BitingThere are other painful symptoms of a cavity besides overall discomfort. Additionally, you can experience sharp pain when you bite, chew, or press on your teeth.

5. Recurring mouth ulcers
Mouth ulcers are sores that develop inside the mouth, appearing red or yellow. They should not be confused with viral cold sores that appear on the outside of the lips. Mouth ulcers can be quite painful and persist for a considerable period.

While biting the tongue or cheek can cause ulcers that usually heal on their own, recurring ulcers with an unknown cause can occur in both children and adults. If a mouth ulcer does not heal within three weeks, it may be a sign of an underlying condition that requires dental attention. It's essential to consult your dentist in such cases.

6. Tooth sensitivityDo you experience tooth sensitivity when consuming hot or cold food and drinks? Is brushing or flossing painful? Several dental issues can cause sensitive teeth, including cavities, cracked teeth, worn fillings, enamel erosion, gum recession, and oral infections.

Tooth sensitivity is a common symptom of tooth decay and gum disease. Consulting an experienced periodontist for a thorough examination will help determine the best course of action to address these issues.

7. Loose teethIf you notice one or more loose teeth, it is crucial not to ignore them. Loose teeth can be indicative of an advanced stage of dental conditions. There can be various causes, including improper brushing technique leading to inadequate plaque removal, osteoporosis (especially in older individuals), or trauma from accidents or falls.

Having a loose adult tooth requires immediate attention from a dentist. In the meantime, it's important to avoid touching or moving the tooth. Treatments are available for loose teeth, and preserving your natural tooth whenever possible should be a priority, as adult tooth loss is associated with other dental issues.