Sometimes our mouths are sending out an S.O.S. while the
next dentist appointment is still six months away. How do you know what can’t
be ignored? Here are five symptoms that need to be checked out by a dental
professional
A sore
that isn’t healing
If you notice a mouth sore, a lump or a red or pale patch of
skin on your tongue, cheek or gum, keep an eye on it for a couple of weeks. If
it doesn’t go away, see your dentist ASAP. An earlier diagnosis of oral cancer
means a much better chance of recovery. That’s why dental professionals should
do a cancer screening at your regular visits, even if you haven’t noticed any
symptoms. And you can check yourself at home once a month. Ask your dental care
providers how to do a self-exam. “It’s not difficult to do,” says Mandy Hayre,
Chair of Vancouver Island University’s Dental Hygiene Diploma Program. “It just
takes a mirror and good lighting.”
Pain
and swelling
If you have unexplained pain or puffiness in your mouth that
persists for a couple of days, bite the bullet and call your dentist. It could
be a sign of infection, decay, gum disease or a cracked tooth. Left untreated,
these problems can worsen and even lead to tooth loss. Don’t delay, especially
if the symptoms are disturbing your sleep. “You absolutely have to go to your
dentist,” says Hayre.
A bad
smell or taste in your mouth
Foul-smelling breath could be a consequence of that sliced
onion you had on your lunch salad. Or it could mean you’re not looking after
your teeth and gums properly, and there’s a build-up of bacteria. But sometimes
bad breath signals other health problems like gum disease, sinusitis, throat or
lung infections, tooth decay or an abscess. A bad taste in the mouth can also
be a sign of an oral infection.
You may not realize your mouth smells rank. So if your
spouse or partner comments on your bad breath, consider it a courtesy – and
call your dentist’s office.
Loose
tooth
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Of course, a wiggly tooth is perfectly natural when you’re
six years old. But when you’re forty-six, you need to see a dentist about it.
“The number-one cause of loose teeth is gum disease,” says Hayre. And since gum
or periodontal disease can cause tooth loss, it’s important to get your oral
health back on track.
Occasionally, a loose tooth can be a sign of oral cancer. An
accidental impact to your mouth can also loosen a tooth or two. Either way, you
shouldn’t ignore a tooth that’s less than solid, because that’s not normal for
adults.
Wisdom
tooth symptoms
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Is your third set of molars, also known as your wisdom
teeth, giving you grief? If there isn’t enough space for them at the back of
the mouth, they can become impacted. It’s a common problem that can have no
symptoms at all. But sometimes impacted teeth cause tenderness, swelling and
other symptoms.
Impacted or partially erupted teeth can attract a buildup of
plaque and debris, and they may even cause a shift in the alignment of your
other teeth. If you’re noticing soreness or swelling near your back molars,
it’s important to have them checked. The earlier these troublesome teeth are
removed, the smoother the recovery process.
If your mouth is generally feeling fine, your dentist will
recommend a regular appointment schedule, such as every six months. But when it
comes to certain signs and symptoms, you shouldn’t wait. Remember, most oral
health problems have a better outcome when they’re, well, nipped in the bud.
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