Big problems like a chipped or missing tooth are obvious clues that you need to schedule an appointment ASAP. But what about more subtle signs of potential problems? To help keep your mouth healthy and your smile looking its best, we rounded up some of the most common signs of tooth trouble.
Bad Breath
The Bad Breath Institute estimates that more than 80 million people have chronic halitosis (bad breath) in the U.S., and at least 99 percent of everyone experiences the dreaded morning breath. Although many cases of bad breath aren’t an immediate cause for concern, anything beyond morning breath or bad breath associated with a meal might be a sign of dry mouth, tooth decay, gum disease, or even medical conditions, such as liver or kidney disease, gastric reflux, or diabetes.
Sore Gums
Redness, swelling, and pain in your gums are often signs of inflammation or infection. If you don’t treat the problem, then this inflammation and infection can ultimately cause receding gums, damage to the bones in your jaw, and the loss of your teeth.
Tooth Pain
If one or more of your teeth hurts, then it could be caused by an infection or a tooth injury. Not all pain is the same though. Common types of tooth pain include:
- Throbbing
- Pressure that radiates from a tooth
- Sharp, shooting pains
- Extreme sensitivity
- Dull ache
- Pain while eating
- Pus or a foul odor
Accurately describing your pain is helpful when your dentist is trying to pinpoint the cause of your discomfort.
Jaw Problems
Your jaw connects to your skull with a joint called the temporomandibular joint. When that joint is injured or damaged, it causes a variety of symptoms indicative of temporomandibular joint disorders, sometimes generally referred to as TMJ syndrome. Symptoms may include:
- Clicking or popping when you open or close your mouth
- Aching pain in your face or in and around your ears
- Locked jaw
- Pain in the jaw
You Haven’t Been to the Dentist in More Than Six Months
Regular dental checkups are essential to keeping your mouth healthy. Having your teeth routinely cleaned keeps your smile looking its best, but that’s not all. Your dentist cleans between your teeth and along the gum line in addition to spotting potential problems before they get out of hand.
If you’re experiencing any of these signs, make an appointment to see a dentist as soon as possible. Klement Family Dental has been providing quality dental care for the Tampa metropolitan area for more than 35 years. Visit stpetedentist.com to learn more about our services, or call us today as 727-498-1959 to make an appointment.
