We can’t emphasize enough how important it is to make sure that you always address any issues that arise in your mouth, even if you think it may be no big deal. This includes anything to do with your teeth, tongue, and gums.
If you have any of these 5 major oral health problems, you need to see your dentist before they escalate into a bigger problem.
(1) Sore & inflamed gums
Sore and inflamed gums are often a clear indication that you have gum disease – also known as gingivitis. Your gums may actually bleed when you brush. This is why it is so important to brush thoroughly, twice a day…as well as floss. Your dentist will be able to quickly diagnose this when you go for your checkup. If you catch it early enough, it can be treated.
(2) Sensitive teeth 
When you eat something really cold, hot, or sweet, do your teeth feel sensitive? If so, this could be a sign that you have a cavity, infection, loss of tooth enamel, an exposed root, or a cracked tooth.
(3) White spots on your teeth
White spots on your teeth can make you self-conscious, but aside from just being an aesthetic issue, this usually indicates a loss of mineral content on the surface of the teeth (enamel). It can also be a sign of tooth decay.
(4) Sores in your mouth or on your tongue
Unexpected sores anywhere on your body are cause for concern of course, but sores specifically in your mouth could possibly indicate cancer. These may look like white or red patches or lumps.
It goes without saying that you need to make an appointment with your dentist asap if you detect anything of the sort so that tests can be done.
Things like good nutrition, cutting back on alcohol, and quitting smoking can help prevent this from happening. It is also a good idea to protect your lips with lip balm that has sun protection.
(5) Bad breath
Let’s face it – no one like’s bad breath. It can be embarrassing, hinder your social life, and also be a sign that you need to improve your oral hygiene routine. 
In addition to brushing and flossing, it is wise to invest in a tongue scraper to cut down on the growth of bacteria. These can be purchased for a few dollars at a drug store.
Some people who do not eat enough carbohydrates or follow a keto diet may also find that they have this issue. Certain chemicals are released in the breath as the body burns fat (a process known as ketosis). This happens when your body starts to use other fats and proteins as a source of energy.
It’s good to be aware that bad breath can be a result of change in diet, as often people don’t realize they have bad breath…and others are often embarrassed to tell the person. With anything, it definitely helps to drink a lot of water.
If you have any of these issues, book an appointment with your dentist at your earliest convenience. Your health is nothing to wait on!
If you are looking for dentists in Abbotsford, we would love to have you as a patient at our beautiful dental clinic. Call us to book an appointment today: 604.744.1513.
