3 Oral Issues You Should See Your Dentist For
Posted on: 25 November 2015
You know when you have a toothache or sensitive teeth that it's time to see the dentist. What about other oral issues, such as sensitive or bleeding gums, canker sores that don't go away, or other mouth issues that cause discomfort? Here are 3 oral issues you should see your dentist about, even if they are unrelated to your teeth, and why it's important you do so.
Lip injury
A lip sore can happen for many reasons, including biting your lip when eating or cracking your lip in a collision or fall. Even if your lip injury is minor, you need to watch it carefully to ensure it doesn't get infected. The reason for this is simple: your mouth is moist and home to many types of bacteria that can cause even a small mouth sore to turn into a serious infection, fast. If you have a sore lip and your pain increases, your mouth remains swollen or gets worse, your lip begins oozing pus, or your lymph nodes begin to swell, see your dentist right away. Your dentist can assess your injury and recommend special oral rinses to help reduce bacteria in your mouth to keep infection at bay. They may also prescribe an antibiotic or ointment for any existing infection to help you heal.
Swollen or discolored gums
Your gums need to be in good health so they can create a healthy atmosphere for your teeth to thrive. Swollen or dark-colored gums can indicate bacteria underneath your gums, which can cause your gums to recede as they try to fight the bacteria. As your gum line recedes, your teeth and their roots in turn become susceptible to bacteria and infection. If you notice swelling in your gums, bleeding when you brush your teeth, or the edges of your gums rimmed with a dark red or purple hue, then you should see your dentist to address this oral concern.
Lip and tongue piercings
If you have a tongue or lip piercing, you risk harming your mouth in many ways. A tongue piercing in particular can pose a danger since it can chip your teeth if you play with it or accidentally let it get in the way when you are drinking or eating. Lip piercings can pose a danger as well since they can get infected and spread bacteria into your mouth. If you have a tongue or lip piercing, watch for signs of infection, similar to mouth sores and injuries. See your dentist regularly to ensure your piercings are not harming your teeth in any way.
There are many motivations to see the dentist for more than just a dental checkup. Mouth sores, piercings, and even gum issues are all reasons to see your dentist for your oral health. If you notice swelling in your gums, bleeding when you brush your teeth, or see the edges of your gums rimmed with a dark red or purple hue, then you should see your dentist to address this oral concern. Find out here even more things a dentist can do to help you.
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