Sometimes, it’s easier to put off a seemingly minor dental issue instead of going to a dentist to have it checked and examined. But, without immediate action, these problems can lead to a bigger concern that affects your health. Call Dr. Woodburn’s office if you experience the following signs:
Bleeding Gums
Have you experienced seeing blood on your toothbrush or on the sink after brushing? Typically, it’s because you brushed too hard, or the bristles are too rough on your gums. But in some cases, bleeding gums may also be an indication of a serious problem that needs dental treatment.
Gingivitis is one of the most common oral issues that cause bleeding gums. It occurs when there’s plaque buildup in the gum line and it’s considered a mild condition. But if not addressed, gingivitis can progress into periodontitis, a severe gum problem that may lead to tooth loss.
Besides oral problems, bleeding gums can also be a warning sign of type 1 or type 2 diabetes. This condition can result in an increase in glucose levels in the saliva, which helps gum disease-causing germs and plaque to grow. Undergoing a comprehensive dental checkup is critical to assess if there’s an underlying condition that causes your gums to bleed.
Aching Tooth
If you have a persistent toothache that lasts longer than one or two days, then it’s time to see Dr. Woodburn for a checkup. The pain can result from various oral problems, such as tooth decay, damaged filling, gum infection, or dental abscess.
Identifying the root cause of the toothache is vital in determining the most viable treatment. If the pain is due to a cavity, your dentist will need to remove the decayed part of the tooth and replace it with dental fillings. In the case of infection, root canal therapy may be necessary, which involves extracting the affected pulp and disinfecting the inside of the tooth.
Dry Mouth
Saliva neutralizes acids produced by bacteria and washes food particles away, which aids in preventing tooth decay and infection. If the mouth doesn’t have enough saliva, the risks of developing oral problems increase, which may include dental caries, canker sores, and gum diseases.
Dry mouth can also be a symptom of an underlying health problem such as Sjögren’s syndrome, an autoimmune disease that affects salivary and tear glands. Certain drugs and medical treatments can also result in a reduced production of saliva in your mouth. Talk to your dentist so they can examine the cause of dry mouth and determine the potential treatment options for it.
Don’t Ignore the Signs of an Oral Problem
If you experience any of these signs, don’t wait any further. Schedule an appointment with Dr. David C. Woodburn, D.D.S. and let us know your symptoms. Our staff will perform a comprehensive examination and explore every option possible to treat your oral problem.