Bleeding
If you notice that there is blood on your toothbrush or in the sink after you brush or floss, then it’s important that you make an appointment to see your dentist.
Bleeding gums are a sign of gum disease, which if left untreated can cause you to lose your teeth. In the early stages of gum disease, there is often a plaque build up in the mouth, which causes the gums to become red and inflamed, and which means that they bleed easily when they are touched by a toothbrush.
Some of the possible causes of gum disease are:
- Plaque build-up due to improper brushing. This is the most common cause of gum disease.
- Hormonal changes. The changes that occur during pregnancy, menstruation, and puberty make the gums more sensitive, which can make it easier for gum disease to develop.
- Illnesses such as cancer and HIV affect your immune system, which means that they can also affect gum health. Diabetes is also a risk factor for gum disease.
- Smoking means that gum tissue doesn’t repair itself as well, and can lead to gum disease.
If you get to the dentist early, they will be able to provide an effective treatment.
Painful teeth
If you have tooth pain, then it’s important that you don’t suffer in silence! This is particularly true if your pain has persisted for more than a couple of days, or if you can see swelling around the tooth. Tooth pain can be caused by a host of things such as an infection, a cracked tooth, gum disease, or an abscess. Your dentist will be able to determine the cause and treat you.
Knocking out a tooth
If your child or you have knocked out a tooth then it’s important that you seek emergency dental treatment as soon as possible. If possible retrieve the tooth, gently rinse off any dirt under running water, and ensure that the root stays alive by putting it back in the socket from which it came. Alternatively, you can keep the tooth moist by holding it in your cheek, or by keeping it in a glass of milk. Never keep it in tap water as this can damage the root.
Loose teeth
If you notice that a tooth has become loose, and seems to be moving around in its socket, then it’s important that you see a dentist.
You might notice this when brushing or flossing, or it might be so pronounced that it happens when you are eating. Having a loose tooth or teeth as an adult is a possible sign of gum disease, and it shouldn’t be ignored.
Receding gums
It’s natural for gums to recede slightly as we age. A large proportion of people over the age of 65 experience some gum recession. However, gum recession is also a sign of gum disease or a sign of infection or over-brushing. When your gum recedes it leaves the root of the tooth exposed, which can cause pain and sensitivity.
Your dentist will be able to provide treatment to stop your gums receding.
