Many factors might cause preventative health care to fall by the wayside: young children, stressful work, a buddy in need. Until a persistent symptom tells you that it’s been a while since your previous visit.

It’s tempting to put off seemingly minor dental concerns until your schedule clears. However, the warning indications listed below should not be overlooked. This is especially true if you have a chronic illness like diabetes. You will save time and money by detecting issues early on.

1. Bleeding After Brushing Or Flossing

Blood on your toothbrush or in the sink is not usual. It might indicate that you are developing gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, an inflammation of the tissues that keep your teeth in place. Untreated gum disease can cause bone loss around the teeth and finally tooth loss. Other symptoms include red, puffy, or sore gums, as well as discharge between the teeth and gums.

2. Receding Gums

Some gum recession is a typical aspect of the aging process: 88 percent of persons over the age of 65 have recession around at least one tooth. However, recession can also be an indication of gum disease. Regardless of the cause, receding gums can expose the fragile roots of teeth, increasing the risk of decay, infection, discomfort, and tooth loss. When detected early, medication can halt or even reverse the progression.

3. A Dry Mouth

A healthy mouth is highly lubricated by saliva, which washes away food particles and neutralizes the acids created by plaque. If your mouth seems especially dry, it might be an indication of disease. Your New Image Dental dentist Los Angeles can assess what’s causing your dry mouth and provide solutions to restore moisture and preserve your teeth.

4. Loose Or Moving Teeth

Adult teeth should last a lifetime. Take note of any little movement or growing gaps. It might be an indication of infection or bone loss. Look for changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite, as well as changes in the fit of your partial dentures.

5. Bumps And Sores

Common canker sores will heal on their own in one to two weeks. Other oral lesions, however, must be addressed. Thrush, also known as candidiasis, is a fungal infection that causes white ulcers on the tongue, inner cheek, tonsils, or roof of the mouth. Diabetes makes people more vulnerable to thrush, which thrives on high sugar levels in the saliva. Thrush can be treated with medicine.

6. Toothache

This one is self-evident. However, toothaches should not be neglected. A cavity, abscess, fractured tooth, damaged filling, or grinding of your teeth can all produce pain and sensitivity. Only your dentist can establish what’s causing the discomfort, fix the underlying issue, and help you avoid future issues.

Top 5 Ways To Keep Your Mouth Healthy

Early gum disease often has no warning signals. So, even if you have no symptoms, have frequent exams and take proper care of your teeth at home:

1. Brush at least twice a day for two minutes each time.
2. Use a toothbrush with gentle bristles; strong bristles might cause gum injury.
3. Floss once a day to remove debris from between your teeth and below the gum line.
4. Consult your dentist to see whether you should use a fluoride rinse to help prevent tooth decay.
5. If you use dentures, clean them every day. Remove stains and plaque buildup that might hurt your gums. Remove your dentures before going to bed to keep your gums healthy.