Six oral health signs you ‘shouldn’t ignore’ – dentist advice

“Regular visits to the dentist, along with good oral hygiene habits, can help prevent oral health issues.”

He shared six oral health signs you “shouldn’t ignore”.

Tooth pain or sensitivity

He said: “Tooth pain or sensitivity is a common issue that can occur due to various reasons such as cavities, gum disease, teeth grinding, or a cracked tooth.

“If you experience tooth pain or sensitivity, it’s important to visit your dentist as soon as possible.

“Ignoring tooth pain or sensitivity can lead to more severe oral health problems like dental abscess.”

Bleeding gums

“Bleeding gums is one of the early warning signs of gum disease,” he said.

“Gum disease is caused by plaque build-up on the teeth, which irritates the gums and causes inflammation.

“If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss, bad breath, and even heart disease. If you notice bleeding gums, it’s essential to visit your dentist to prevent the issue from escalating.”

Transparent teeth

Dr Juneja explained: “Transparent teeth occur when the enamel of the teeth becomes thin, revealing the inner layer of the tooth called dentin.

“It can be caused by a variety of factors such as acid reflux, bulimia, over-brushing, or genetics.

“If you notice your teeth are becoming transparent, it’s important to visit your dentist to identify the underlying cause and prevent further damage.”

Bad breath

“Bad breath is a common issue that can occur due to various reasons such as poor oral hygiene, gum disease, or an underlying health condition,” he said.

“If you have persistent bad breath, it’s important to visit your dentist. They can identify the root cause of the issue and provide you with the appropriate treatment.”

Mouth sores

He commented: “Mouth sores are a common oral health issue that can be caused by stress, infections, vitamin deficiencies, or other medical conditions.

“While most mouth sores are harmless, some can be a sign of a more serious issue, such as oral cancer. If you have a mouth sore that persists for more than two weeks, it’s important to see your dentist.”

Dry mouth

He said: “Dry mouth is a common issue that occurs when there is not enough saliva in the mouth. It can be caused by various factors such as medications, dehydration, or certain medical conditions.

“While dry mouth may seem like a minor issue, it can lead to more severe oral health problems, such as gum disease and tooth decay.

“If you are experiencing dry mouth, it’s important to talk to your dentist to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.”

How to look after your teeth

Dr Juneja said: “Regular visits to the dentist, along with good oral hygiene habits, can help prevent oral health problems and maintain optimal oral health.

“If you notice any of the signs listed above, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with your dentist. Your dentist can identify the root cause of the issue and provide you with the appropriate treatment to keep your smile healthy and beautiful.”