In taking care of our health, we often prioritize our body’s well-being over smaller things we think are less important. While brushing and flossing is a common routine for most people every day, many forget just how important oral hygiene is to our health. Without proper care of your teeth, much can fall to the wayside. If it’s painful to eat crunchy foods or just drink cold water, those simple annoyances can affect your overall happiness. But that’s not all. Your mouth could hide several bigger issues. Below, learn what your mouth is telling you—and why you should listen.
1. If you have jaw pain…
While temporary jaw pain from chewing too much gum isn’t something to run to the dentist about, consistent pain is worrisome. It could signal that you have temporomandibular joint disorder (commonly known as TMJ), but it could also mean you’re suffering from a tooth abscess or a deeper infection. If you’re experiencing prolonged mild or even severe pain in your jaw, visit a dentist to diagnose and determine the best course of treatment.
2. If you have sudden tooth decay…
If you’ve lived cavity-free for your whole life but find yourself suddenly needing multiple fillings, it could be a sign of something bigger. Your body may have trouble processing glucose which leads to excess sugar in your saliva. If this is the root cause, it could mean you have diabetes. There are other explanations, though, from stress to eating vitamins right before bed (some have large amounts of sugar in them), acidic foods, and even over-brushing! Whatever the cause, it’s best to check it out.
3. If you have white spots on your teeth…
White spots on the teeth of children often means they received too much fluoride. When the marks appear in adults, though, they can signal a bigger problem like mineral loss. This can lead to weakened enamel and tooth decay.
4. If you have worn-down teeth…
It’s not uncommon for people with sleep apnea to clench their jaws, biting down hard, or even grind their teeth in their sleep. This can cause chronic headaches and migraines, so it’s important to understand the issue. Dentists have ways to cut down on grinding with customizable mouth guards and inserts that relieve tension.
5. If you have red or white sores or patches…
Any kind of discoloration in your mouth is rarely a good sign, but white or red patches or lumps can be a sign of an oral HPV infection or oral cancer. If you’re experiencing a white-coated tongue, that could show a fungal disease.
Your mouth has a lot to say for your overall health. Don’t ignore it! If you experience any of these issues, or others you’re worried about, visit the professional and caring team at Church Street Dental in Rockport, Texas. Not only will they be able to answer all of your questions, but you can trust that they’ll thoroughly treat your oral issues thanks to their 45+ years of combined experience. Visit them at RockportChurchStreetDental.com, or call at (361) 450-6905.
Rockport, TX 78382
(361) 450-6905
Hours:
Monday-Thursday 9:00a-5:00p
Closed: Fri-Sun