Doctors are thought of as health experts, whereas dentists are thought of as oral professionals. But have you realized that your lips might reveal vital information about your health?
Many people ignore the fact that visiting the dentist is crucial unless they develop a serious problem or a tooth falls out, despite the fact that the American Dental Association says it’s important to visit the dentist and get teeth cleanings regularly.
However, in addition to big dental disasters, there are a slew of other, more subtle signs that your oral health is in jeopardy. There are a few subtle signals that you should visit the dentist.
1. Bad breath
Is it just you, or do people seem to be keeping their distance from you? Bad breath can be an embarrassment in social situations, but it can also indicate a more serious dental issue. Infection, poor oral hygiene, or dry mouth are all possibilities. All of these factors can contribute to poor breath.
2. Receding gums
Have you noticed that your gums have started to recede? It could be a symptom of bone loss if your teeth are becoming increasingly apparent. You should see your dentist as soon as possible to determine what is causing the recession.
3. Morning fatigue
The dentist may not be the first person you think of when you're tired, but if you're waking up exhausted every day, it could be due to a problem with your teeth. Sleep apnea is a condition in which you periodically stop breathing while sleeping, which can lead to heart attacks. If you're clenching your teeth to open your airway, your dentist can check your teeth and gums.
4. Teeth grinding
Teeth-grinding problems, such as TMJ or TMD, may be to blame if your head hurts a lot. The temporomandibular joint is a hinge that connects your jaw to your temporal bones, which are located in front of each ear.
5. Gum inflammation
If you have any problems with your gums, such as bleeding, irritation, or swelling, don't hesitate to contact your dentist. These are symptoms of gum disease and infection, which can lead to heart disease, diabetes, pregnancy complications, and stroke.
6. Migraines
Many individuals are unaware that bruxism, or teeth grinding, is a common cause of migraine headaches. The temporomandibular joints, which are placed on the side of your head near your ears, are subjected to frequent grinding, which can cause severe headaches and migraines. To avoid this, people should see their dentist for a personalized stabilizing splint, which is a comfortable mouthpiece that can help minimize teeth grinding while sleeping.
8. Sensitivity to cold or hot temperatures
When you drink a glass of icy water or a cup of steaming coffee, have you felt any weird sensations in your teeth? You should see your dentist if you are experiencing any sensitivity to hot or cold substances. Anything from a cavity to enamel loss could be the cause.
9. Pain when chewing food
If your teeth hurt when you chew, schedule an appointment with your dentist. This could indicate a fractured or diseased tooth.
10. Ear pain
Ear pain might be caused by a real ear infection, but it can also be linked to your dental health. Referred ear pain can be caused by tooth and gum infections. Pain and ringing in the ears can also be caused by faulty temporomandibular (jaw) joint function.
11. Bumps, lumps, or nodules inside the mouth
Call your dentist right away if you see anything unusual growing in or around your mouth. It's usually a clogged salivary gland or something innocuous, but it can also be the first sign of more serious problems or illnesses.
12. Changes in saliva
Have you noticed that the consistency of your saliva has changed? Saliva thickness can be caused by a wide range of factors, all of which require a visit to the dentist.
