What are the signs of poor oral hygiene?

Symptoms of poor oral hygiene show up in many forms. It’s hard to tell right away if something’s wrong. Sometimes, the symptoms only show up once a problem has worsened.

However, your dentist will be able to detect the presence of an issue early on. That’s why it’s crucial to keep up with your routine oral hygiene appointments.

What are some signs of poor oral hygiene?

While your dentist is the best person to diagnose an issue, it helps to inspect your mouth for irregularities. Always be on the lookout for these common signs of poor oral hygiene.

1. Persistent bad breath. It’s natural to experience bad breath. There’s morning breath and there’s bad breath after eating and drinking. But if the offensive breath remains even after brushing your teeth, it may be a sign of an underlying issue that requires professional intervention. These issues may include gastrointestinal problems or sinus infections among many others. Don’t ignore bad breath that’s chronic.
2. Increased tooth sensitivity. Persistently sensitive teeth can also indicate a dental problem. The causes vary and so do the possible solutions. It can be due to aggressive tooth brushing, enamel erosion, receding gums, gum disease, poor diet, or teeth grinding. Poor oral hygiene is one of the biggest culprits. Bacteria feed off food debris and form into acids that erode the enamel. When the enamel erodes, the nerves of the tooth become exposed. This can cause increased sensitivity when the teeth are exposed to anything sweet, cold, or hot.
3. Dry mouth. A dry mouth happens when there isn’t enough salivary flow. Hydration is crucial as it keeps the mouth moist. Saliva replenishes lost minerals in the enamel. But if the enamel is losing more minerals than it can restore, it may lose against harmful acids. This can result in decay and cavities. Dry mouth is also linked to bad breath and certain medications.
4. Sore, swollen, and bleeding gums. Gums keep the teeth in place. Ideally, they should be pinkish and firm. If your gums feel sore and are swollen, that may be a sign of gum disease, whose severe cases can lead to tooth loss. It may also be associated with other health conditions, such as diabetes. Bleeding gums when you brush isn’t normal. Although it may be due to harsh brushing, it may be connected with another oral health issue. Let your dentist know if there’s anything unusual with your gums.
5. Patches or lumps. Inspect your lips, tongue, and cheeks for any abnormal growth or irregularities. Consult your dentist if the texture or colour changes. Watch for lumps, patches, or lesions as they can either be a sign of a simple canker sore or a serious condition like oral cancer. You can never be too sure until your dentist examines your mouth. It’s best to determine the cause as soon as possible to rule out other possible issues and start necessary treatment immediately.
6. Painful teeth. A severe toothache can be paralyzing. It can cause you sleepless nights and absence from work or school. A common cause of sore teeth is cavities. Dental cavities are common but they’re preventable. Good oral hygiene habits can keep your teeth free from decay and cavities. Maintaining routine dental hygiene cleanings is also crucial. When inspecting your mouth, look out for discolouration or tartar buildup. See your dentist right away if the pain returns and worsens.

Poor oral hygiene can never be masked by a white smile or a straight set of teeth. There’s more to keeping the mouth healthy than appearance. Visiting the dentist regularly, staying proactive, and investing in preventative care is an effective way to keep your dental costs low.

Looking for a dentist in North Battleford, Saskatchewan? Rayburn Dental welcomes new patients. If you're looking for a new dentist or would like to schedule your routine oral examinations in North Battleford, Saskatchewan, contact us today at . Our friendly receptionists are happy to help you schedule a dental appointment.