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Dental Symptoms: The only time we visit a dentist is when we have toothache. Is that really enough? The Australian Dental Association’s results from the recent Adult Oral Health Tracker clearly illustrates that tooth decay, gum disease and oral cancer contribute to disability, illness and even death. This makes it very important for us to pay a lot more attention to our teeth when it comes to our overall health. Two examples of dental problems and what could cause a dental symptom are given below.
The state of our teeth, breath and gums reveal a lot about our general state of health.
Dental Symptoms: Bad Breath
While bad breath or halitosis could be the result of poor dental hygiene, it could also be caused by other health issues that remain un-diagnosed often. One cause for smelly breath can be respiratory disorders and diabetes.
Other underlying health issues that could cause bad breath are infections, bronchitis, sinus inflammation, asthma or even lung cancer.
Other Dental Symptoms - Gum disease
As you age, you start battling the problem of gingivitis or periodontitis. A mild version of gum disease is Gingivitis. Periodontitis can result in loss of bone and gums that surround the teeth.
The bone can actually recede without the gums doing so and in these cases; plaque can build up and cause inflammation, bleeding and pain. It’s important to floss and brush the teeth twice a day. You do so even if it causes bleeding. Only regular brushing can remove plaque and often restore the health of gums.
Since diabetes can worsen gum disease, it is important to check with your dentist the underlying cause for the gum disease. Bone and gum tissue that becomes damaged cannot be replaced. Hence, apart from cleaning your teeth and the affected gums, managing the underlying health issue becomes critical to your overall health. You may have to make lifestyle changes such as avoiding smoking where possible since this would worsen gum disease.
Get in touch with us at Eastside Dental (member OF ADA)
If your gums do hurt or bleed while brushing or flossing, or you are experiencing persistent bad breath, come and meet us. Any of these conditions may indicate a problem. Besides, at Eastside Dental, we start with a thorough dental checkup. This also includes your general health, dietary habits and tooth cleaning schedule. We can help you learn good oral hygiene techniques and point out areas of your mouth that may require extra attention during brushing and flossing.