Dental Issues You Should Take More Seriously

Your health is one of your most precious gifts, and you should never take it lightly. Your body is programmed to tell you when something is wrong, yet many people ignore these early warning signs. You can reduce your chances of developing serious health issues if you learn to listen more closely to your body. For example, your mouth will tell you right away when something is up. Here are three dental issues you should take more seriously.

Persistent Bad Breath

While most cases of halitosis can be attributed to poor oral hygiene, it can be an early indicator that something more serious is at play. Persistent bad breath can be caused by illnesses and diseases such as tonsil infections, sinus infections, diabetes, metabolic disorders, and even liver or kidney problems. Additionally, bad breath is an early warning sign of periodontitis or gum disease. 

Gum Disease

Gum disease is a serious infection that is largely preventable but irreversible once it gets to an advanced stage. Early warning signs of gum disease include swollen gums, bleeding when you brush or floss, and pain when you chew. Getting treatment at this stage should prevent the infection from reaching advanced levels that can’t be reversed. 

When gum disease is left untreated, it can get serious. If gum disease progresses enough, you could lose some of your teeth over time. You can prevent gum disease by brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and seeing a dentist every six months. Regularly using mouthwash also helps.

Toothaches 

Teeth don’t hurt for no reason. Sensitive, painful teeth are almost always the result of an underlying dental issue. Most commonly, toothaches are caused by cavities. Dental cavities left untreated can lead to an excruciatingly painful abscess. It also causes your tooth to decay from the outside in. Both issues are extremely painful and might require a tooth extraction. Tooth decay happens when the bacteria on your teeth excrete acid that wears down your enamel. 

You can prevent cavities by limiting your intake of sugar, brushing twice a day, and flossing daily. It also helps to chew sugar-free gum and drink lots of water throughout the day. Don’t let minor issues become major issues. You should never ignore pain or sensitivity in your mouth. See your dentist if you suspect something might be up. Healthy teeth and gums aren’t just important for good oral health. They are an important part of your general health as well. 

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