Asking your friendly neighborhood dentist here in Annapolis for advice is always a good idea. So what should you know?
Your dental and oral health are both extremely important. You shouldn’t take them for granted, and the fact of the matter is, they require plenty of daily upkeep. A responsible hygiene regimen can go a long way towards repelling the effects of gum disease and tooth decay. Asking your friendly neighborhood dentist here in Annapolis for advice is always a good idea. So what should you know?
You’re Neglecting Your Dental Hygiene
Food debris can get stuck in your teeth, especially after you eat. If you don’t get it out (whether with floss or in some cases, toothpicks) you’ll run into problems involving tooth decay and swollen gums, also known as inflammation. These irritated gums can make it difficult to enjoy some of your favorite fall treats, such as apple cider and pumpkin pie. Pale gums, red gums, and bleeding while brushing are all bad signs. If you see pus coming out of a tooth, and only one tooth, then it’s probably time to call your dentist. Loose teeth, bad breath, and strange tastes in your mouth that won’t go away are also signs that your dental care routine leaves something to be desired.
You’re Developing Gum Disease
Gum tissue helps protect your teeth and hold them in place by covering the pulp and roots that anchor each tooth. Inflamed gums can lead to gum disease, which is indicated by tenderness or bleeding along with excessive sensitivity, teeth that are falling out, and gum recession – where the gums are retreating from the tooth.
You Have an Abscess
Like the phrase “root canal”, no one is eager to hear the word abscess. These problems come about when a cavity is left untreated and bacterial infection has taken hold. You’ll feel pain, notice swollen gums, experience a swollen jaw, and even spike a fever. Eventually, infections can reach the jawbone itself, so if you believe you have an abscess, be sure to alert your Annapolis dentist as soon as you can!
What Can Increase Your Risk Factors?
Lastly, let’s examine some of the conditions that can put you at risk for developing periodontal disease. A smoking habit can make it worse, but if you don’t smoke, then swollen gums could be raising red flags about health conditions such as diabetes and AIDS that can affect your overall well-being. Sometimes, the proclivity for poor oral health is inherited through a family genetic history. You might also have crooked teeth and fillings that are not doing their job. Are you taking any medications? They might be causing dry mouth, which can contribute to the problem at large.
KEEP YOUR MOUTH HAPPY WITH ANNAPOLIS DENTAL CARE!
Whether it’s a regular check-up you need or a tooth extracted, your dentist in Annapolis is here to serve! Annapolis Dental Care has the expertise and compassion to work with you on improving your oral health. Your comfort and health are our top priorities, and so we go above and beyond to make our patients happy and give them the highest quality care. To set up an appointment today, please give us a call at 410-571-5014 or visit us online. For more oral health tips for you and your family, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube! We are always looking for new patients, so if you live in Arnold, Annapolis, Anne Arundel County, MD, come on down!