5 dental symptoms you should never ignore: what they mean and why you should take action early

Your oral health is more connected to your overall wellbeing than you might think. What might seem like minor problems with your teeth or gums could actually be signs of something more serious. Ignoring them might lead to bigger problems, not just for your mouth, but for your health in general.

Here are five dental symptoms you should never ignore:

1. Bleeding gums: sometimes bleeding gums are just a sign you need to brush more gently or switch to a toothbrush with softer bristles. However, it can also point to early or late-stage gum infection. Swollen gums, known as ‘gingivitis’, may look red and puffy around the teeth, but the first sign could be seeing blood when you brush. A professional dental clean can help remove built-up plaque that’s causing the bleeding and prevent more serious gum disease. Book a dental appointment if your gums are bleeding regularly or showing signs of discomfort.
2. Bad breath: bad breath can be caused by a buildup of bacteria in the mouth and debris on the tongue, which thrive in the mouth’s warm, moist environment. Other factors like periodontitis, dry mouth, poor oral hygiene, or even gut and respiratory issues can also play a role. Keeping up with brushing, flossing, and regular dental cleans can help address oral causes of bad breath.
3. Tooth grinding: tooth grinding, or bruxism, can happen when we’re awake or asleep without realising it. Grinding, gnashing, and clenching your teeth can put too much pressure on your teeth and jaw. Even mild cases might not need special treatment, but they can cause tooth damage, headaches, and jaw problems. Stress, sleep issues, ageing and some medicines can make tooth grinding worse. A custom mouthguard can help protect your teeth. It’s a good idea to see both a dentist and a general practitioner to diagnose and treat the problem.
4. Toothache: a toothache usually means there’s an issue with your teeth or gums. You might feel it on one side of your face, and it can come and go or be constant. The pain can range from a dull ache to severe discomfort. Common causes of toothaches include tooth decay, infection, or the eruption of new teeth. While pain relief can help temporarily, it doesn’t solve the underlying problem. Visit a dentist to find out what’s causing the toothache. Your dentist can examine your teeth, prescribe medication like antibiotics (if needed) and may take an x-ray to plan the right treatment.
5. Loose teeth: it’s normal for children to have loose teeth as their baby teeth make way for their permanent teeth. In adults, loose teeth can be caused by trauma or issues with the supportive structures that keep teeth in their correct position. If these structures are infected or damaged, they can weaken and cause teeth to become loose. Treatment begins with a thorough dental examination to identify the cause. Removing plaque build-up, tooth splinting, and adjusting the bite can all be helpful.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms book an appointment with your dentist to help keep your teeth and gums healthy. Early treatment can often produce a better outcome.