You’ve just discovered a jagged tooth. Was that there before? And come to consider it, your gums are feeling a bit sore. Oh well, it’s probably absolutely nothing. A minimum of, that’s what you tell yourself. Sadly, these seemingly small problems could be your mouth’s quiet weeps for assistance. From tooth pain to yellow discolorations to sore gums, professionals break down the most typical dental complaints — and expose what they mean.
Sharp Tooth Pain
If you experience an abrupt pain in several of your teeth when biting down, you may have tooth decay or cavities. There’s a particular kind of bacteria that takes sugar from your diet and coverts it into acid, which causes dental caries, or holes in your teeth. When those holes get deep, that causes sensitivity and, eventually, cavities.
If the tooth pain occurs just once in a while, and isn’t really confined to single spot, it’s probably nothing to stress over, Dr. Cram states. However if it’s constant — implying it recurs for a week or more– you should pay your dentist a check out.
Achy Tooth Pain
A throbbing or achy tooth pain may be nothing if it only last a day or two. However pain that lasts for more than a week may be a sign you’re grinding or clenching your teeth. If that’s the case you may benefit from a night guard (or a less discouraging job!)
Consistent pain accompanied by swollen gums or glands could also be triggered by an abscessed tooth — a.k.a. a tooth with a root infection, adds Dr. Worth. Only your dentist can tell for sure.
Yellow or Stained Teeth
You can relax on this one: Stained or yellow teeth are nearly never a sign of serious dental concerns. These spots establish from drinking coffee, tea, wine, or other dark or staining liquids. Whitening tooth pastes, strips, or a journey to your dentist can solve the problem. It’s also a good idea to wash or brush your teeth after taking in these liquids to prevent staining in the first place.
Related article: How to get rid of yellowing teeth.
If the discolorations are brown or stripe-y, on the other hand, this could be the outcome of tetracycline antibiotics you were administered as a child, or from other medications. It does not imply the teeth are harmed, however your dental practitioner can take cosmetic actions to remove those stains.
Loose or Suddenly Crooked Teeth
If your teeth feel loose, end up being uneven, or fall out completely, you most likely don’t need a dentist to inform you there’s a huge issue. “This is generally the result of gum disease,” which causes bone loss around your teeth and jaw.
If you’re not cleaning your teeth properly (that means brushing two times a day, flossing daily, and getting cleanings from your dental practitioner two times a year), bacteria on your teeth will form a thin film called plaque. Continue your poor dental practices, which plaque will eventually solidify into tartar, which can spread out into your gums and, eventually, the bones around your mouth. See a dental expert instantly regarding any loose or recently jagged teeth.
Bleeding, Red, or Swollen Gums
This might be an irritating side effect of pregnancy or other hormonal changes. It might also be caused by bacterial accumulation. If the symptoms turn up for a day or 2, but diligent brushing and flossing appear to remedy things, it’s absolutely nothing to stress over, she states.
But if your gum problems continue for more than a week, it might be another sign of periodontal disease. Set up a journey to the dental practitioner as soon as possible.
Sores in Your Mouth
Though painful, sores or soreness are typically the outcome of consuming too much citrus, spicy fare, or scalding hot foods. If the pain vanishes after two or 3 days, you’re most likely fine.
However if the sores linger, that could be a sign of a severe vitamin A deficiency. Vitamin An is necessary for collagen and connective tissues, which is basically what your tongue’s made of. Start eating more sweet potatoes, spinach, and carrots — all good vitamin A sources – and see your dental professional if things do not enhance.
Gum Pain
If your gums or the sides of your teeth injured when you inhale cold air, or drink hot or cold liquids, it could be a cavity. It could likewise indicate your gums have drawn back, exposing the roots of your teeth, she includes. This can happen because of bacteria, clenching or grinding your teeth, or brushing too powerfully with a hard-bristled toothbrush.
If red or white spots appear with the pain, nevertheless, they could be fairly harmless irritations triggered by specific foods, drugs, or even incorrectly fitted dentures or mouthguards. In some cases, they could likewise be signs of oral cancer. If the spots remain for more than a week, have you dental professional check them out, she encourages.