Our team is dedicated to providing you with expert advice to help you achieve optimal oral health. This includes raising awareness of lesser-known dental and oral conditions or symptoms. That's why we've prepared this article, which discusses 3 signs and symptoms related to dental health that you should not ignore. In fact, their presence should prompt you to consult your dentist.
Persistent gum bleeding
When we haven't flossed in a while, it's common to notice gum bleeding when we start again. However, after a few days, the bleeding should stop on its own if we maintain a rigorous oral hygiene routine, including flossing at least once a day.
However, when the bleeding persists despite flossing, it is important to consult a dentist. This is the first sign of gingivitis, which is gum infection. To reverse this, it is generally necessary to perform a professional cleaning in the clinic, including scaling to remove bacterial deposits (plaque and tartar) that have accumulated below the gum line to reverse gingivitis.
In the absence of treatment at this stage, the infection can spread from the gums to the other tissues of the periodontium, which are responsible for firmly holding the tooth roots in the jawbone. Gingivitis then progresses to periodontitis. It is essential to avoid this, as periodontitis can cause irreversible damage to the periodontal tissues and the alveolar bone of the jaw.
Chronic bad breath
Chronic bad breath, which is not related to diet or an external factor, is another sign that should not be ignored. Indeed, bad breath can be a symptom of a disease that is freely evolving at the level of the teeth or gums.
Bacteria responsible for cavities and gum disease release volatile compounds that have a foul odor. Thus, when bacteria proliferate due to untreated oral disease, it can result in a nauseating odor.
When you suffer from chronic bad breath, it is important to consult a dentist so that they can determine the causes of the problem and treat the pathology that is causing it.
An ulcer or mouth lesion that does not heal
Mouth lesions, such as ulcers, usually disappear within 10 to 15 days, at the latest. When a mouth lesion persists after 2 weeks, it is best to have it examined by a dentist. It could be a symptom of mouth cancer.
Mouth cancer is a serious disease, but it is often asymptomatic in its early stages. However, as the disease develops, it can result in the appearance of lesions that do not heal on their own. These can take different forms, such as:
- A whitish spot, similar to an ulcer;
- A reddish spot on the tongue or oral mucosa;
- Dark red or white areas in the mouth.
The dentist is a qualified health professional who can screen and diagnose mouth cancer. Mouth cancer screening is one of the points that is done during your routine visits to the clinic. This is another reason not to neglect them!
Do you have concerns about the health of your teeth and mouth? Request a consultation with your dentist at LaSalle at Dents Mon Quartier. We will perform the necessary examination to identify the cause of your concerns and propose the care you need.
Approved by Dre Charouk
Dr. Joumana Charouk, D.M.D, is proud to offer her patients exceptional care that combines experience, efficiency and good humor.
Dre Joumana Charouk, D.M.D