Ideally, you will schedule regular dental cleanings and examinations, but if you do not, there are things you can spot by looking inside your mouth that may indicate a problem.
The health of your mouth is not only important to your teeth, but is important to your entire health.
Infection present in your oral cavity, is an infection in your body that your immune system is fighting, meaning it is less able to fight infection elsewhere. If you note some of the issues we will discuss below, contact our office.
Indications of Trouble
Signs of Plaque and Tartar:
Examine your teeth, is there a layer of a white or clear sticky substance on the surface and along the bottom of your teeth? This is what is known as plaque. It is a material that is naturally made as a combination of food particles and saliva. It is filled with bacteria that if left in place will damage your teeth, it should be removed with brushing twice a day.
If not, plaque will dry and harden on your teeth becoming a substance that is known as tartar. Do you see a hardened material along the ridge of your teeth that does not easily remove with your fingernail?
Tartar is filled with thriving bacteria that is working its way to eat away at your enamel, causing cavities that could lead to the need for root canals, gum disease, or even the death of your tooth.
Signs of Gum Disease:
When tartar has extended below the gum line, an infection of your gums can begin. The signs indicating gum disease including a small amount of bleeding when brushing or flossing. Many patients assume bleeding when you floss is normal, it’s not, it’s a sign of gum disease.
You can read more about this on our Gum Disease page. Other signs include looking for your gums being irritated, are they red? Swollen? Sore to the touch? These are all signs indicating infection and should be treated before serious problems arise.
Bumps, Cysts, or Pimples inside your Mouth:
Do you have small pimple like pus filled bubbles inside your mouth, along your gums and soft tissues? This may be a sign of infection. We can offer you more information.
For more information on what to look for, contact our office for a dental cleaning and examination. It is important to your dental health.
