We all know regular dental visits at least twice a year are recommended. We also know bleeding gums and tooth pain means you should see your dentist as soon as possible. But what are some other signs or symptoms you may be experiencing that should signal it’s time for a dental visit? Here are to eight to consider….
1. You’ve quit smoking or chewing tobacco.
Quitting tobacco is important for your overall health, and is good for oral health as well. A dental visit after tobacco cessation allows your dentist to check your full mouth with a cancer screening. They will also check your teeth and gums for signs of gum disease and help you create a plan of action to achieve a happy, healthy mouth.
2. You have ongoing medical issues
Make your dentist part of your team if you have a medical condition (such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, eating disorders or are HIV positive), or you are undergoing medical treatment (such as radiation therapy, chemotherapy or hormone replacement therapy). Many diseases and conditions can have an impact on your teeth and gums. The opposite is also true - poor oral health can make some medical conditions worse. Healthy teeth and gums can be key in your recovery.
3. You're pregnant.
A major shift in hormone levels can lead to changes to your oral health. In fact, pregnancy can make some dental problems worse, so don't miss your regular checkup. Also, many pregnant women discover their normally healthy gums may start appearing red, swollen, or even bleeding when brushing. If this occurs, visit to the dentist is a good idea. It's safe to go to the dentist while pregnant. Plan on a visit in your first trimester. Remember to tell your dentist about frequent morning sickness (frequent vomiting can erode your enamel), and problems with your gums.
4. You wake up with headaches
If you go to sleep feeling well, but are waking with headaches, you could be unknowingly grinding or clenching your teeth at night. You may also notice soreness in your jaw when you chew your first meal of the day. Jaw misalignment, TMJ, or grinding can all be discussed at your dentist visit. Your dentist can offer suggestions and solutions, such as mouth guards, to reduce headaches and protect your teeth from excessive wear.
5. You were recently diagnosed with acid reflux.
GERD and acid reflux can cause stomach acids to climb up the esophagus, sometimes as far as the mouth. This can result in unusual tooth erosion and other periodontal problems. Seeing your dentist can allow you to create an action plan to limit damage and even save teeth.
6. You can’t kick that bad taste in your mouth.
An odor or bad taste that doesn’t go away, even after brushing, can be a sign of a more serious condition, such as a saliva gland infection. Frequent, persistent bad breath can also be caused by mouth dryness or uncontrolled bacteria. Your dentist can offer some treatments and solutions.
7. You try to hide your smile
OK - this is not really a "condition", but smiling is important to your well-being. Whether you're self-conscious about a missing tooth or embarrassed by a dull smile, don't be shy about talking to your dentist. You may be surprised at some of the reasonably priced cosmetic options now available as well as financing options - such as CareCredit.
8. You're having trouble eating
Difficulty chewing or swallowing is not the norm. Try eating soft or liquified foods until you can see your dentist.
Schedule Your Dentist Visit Today
Of course this list is not all inclusive, so any time you have a concern with your mouth, teeth, jaw, or gums a dentist visit is recommended. You can contact the Raleigh dental practice of Jeff M. Morrison & Associates at (919) 755-3450 and speak with our friendly staff OR schedule online at: www.jeffmorrisondds.com/contact-us/. We look forward to seeing you.
Even if you think you do a great job taking care of your teeth, chances are you've seen an occasional drop or two of blood on your gums after flossing, or in the sink. Not problem - right? Not so fast!
Bleeding gums are not NEVER normal and the cause needs to be determined. To put it another way - imagine if your scalp started bleeding after you brushed your hair - would you be concerned? If your gums are bleeding when you brush or floss your teeth, you may have a problem and need to schedule a dental appointment to find out.
Here are some of the reasons that gums may start to bleed:
Gum Disease
Chances are, your bleeding gums are caused by gum or periodontal disease. Gum disease is common. Really common. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, up to 80% of the adult population has some level of periodontal disease, while only about 10% are aware of it. Half of Americans aged 30 or older have periodontitis, the more advanced form of periodontal disease. This equals approximately 64.7 million Americans!
Gingivitis is the first stage of periodontal disease. Plaque on your teeth and at the gumline that is not removed by brushing and flossing can infect the gums and lead to the gingivitis. When gingivitis occurs, your gums may become swollen, tender and bleed during brushing. This early stage of gum disease responds well to good brushing and flossing habits and regular dental care. If not treated, gingivitis may progress to a more serious form of gum disease called periodontitis. The infection & inflammation associated with moderate and severe gum disease can result in tooth loss, and is also linked with other serious health issues and concerns such as stroke, heart disease, Alzheimer's disease and diabetes.
Medications
Medications may also cause your gums to bleed. The American Dental Association lists blood thinning medications, such as warfarin, aspirin, and heparin as one of the possible causes of bleeding gums. These medications decrease the blood's ability to clot, which can lead to easier bleeding.
Changes in Your Oral Hygiene Routine
Changing your flossing routine can also lead to bleeding gums. For example, if you haven't remembered to floss for a few days, or if you have begun to floss more frequently, then you may notice some temporary bleeding. Or, you've switched from a soft-bristled toothbrush to a firm brush may also result in gums that bleed. Again, this should be temporary.
Pregnancy Gingivitis
Some pregnant women experience swollen gums and bleeding during brushing. This is known as pregnancy gingivitis. Hormonal changes during pregnancy alter the body's response to the bacteria that causes gum disease. According to the American Pregnancy Association, symptoms should clear up after pregnancy. A dental checkup and regular brushing and flossing can help to prevent gum problems from becoming worse.
Poorly Fitting Dentures or Oral Appliances
People who wear dentures may also may experience bleeding of the gums from time to time. This is more likely when the dentures are too small or fit too tightly. People who wear retainers or other oral appliances may also experience bleeding from improper fit. Consult your dentist or orthodontist if dentures or other oral appliances are uncomfortable. You may need to take new impressions to create a better-fitting mouthpiece.
Medical Conditions
Frequent episodes of gum bleeding, however, can indicate more serious conditions, such as: leukemia (cancer of the blood) or hemophilia (lack of clotting cells). Deficiencies of vitamins C and K can also cause gums to bleed easily. However, vitamin deficiencies aren’t often seen in people who live in developed countries, according to the Linus Pauling Institute. This is because healthy children and adults living in developed areas of the world have access to vitamins C and K through food and supplements.
Your best bet? Schedule an appointment with Dr. Morrison at Jeff M. Morrison & Associates, DDS to discuss your concerns and determine why you are seeing red when you brush and floss. We can be reached at 919.755.3450 or you can schedule online.
