How Do You Know If Something Is Wrong With Your Teeth?

An obvious broken tooth or other severe dental emergency isn’t the only sign that something may be wrong with your teeth. The truth is, there are some early signs that can let you know that something isn’t quite right and that you should see your dentist in Charlottesville sooner rather than later.

Toothache

Having a toothache can be painful, annoying, and concerning all at the same time. All you want is to get some relief. It’s also the body’s way of telling you that you should pay attention to what’s happening in your mouth and to see a dentist. A toothache can be caused by numerous different things including: 

• Cavity
• Abscess
• Broken Tooth
• Damaged Dental Restorations

Toothaches can either present as a sharp or throbbing pain that’s either constant or happens only when pressure is applied. You may also experience swelling, a fever, headache, or a bad taste in your mouth. 

Sensitive Teeth

Tooth sensitivity occurs when you experience shooting pain, usually after eating something hot or cold, something sweet or acidic, or brushing and flossing your teeth. This can be a short-term problem or remain over time. Some underlying causes of sensitive teeth that will require dental treatment are: 

• Cracked Tooth
• Gum Disease
• Cavity
• Enamel Erosion

If you notice a sudden change in the sensitivity of your teeth, call your dentist in Charlottesville. Your dentist will determine the cause of the pain and find the best way to treat it.

Bleeding Gums

One of the more serious signs that something is wrong inside your mouth is bleeding gums. Gums shouldn’t bleed, and if they do, it can be a sign of a serious problem called gum disease. Gum disease is caused when a buildup of bacteria occurs in the gum tissue causing an infection. Additional signs of gum disease may include: 

• Bad Breath
• Receding Gums
• Red or Swollen Gums
• Painful Chewing

Gum disease is best treated when it’s caught in the earliest stages by your dentist in Charlottesville. In fact, if gum disease progresses, it will become irreversible and could lead to tooth loss, an increased risk of heart disease, and stroke.

Mouth Sores

Mouth sores such as an ulcer or canker sore may be concerning, especially if you don’t typically get them. However, many mouth sores will go away on their own within two weeks. If they don’t, then it’s time to see your dentist. Mouth sores can show additional symptoms such as: 

• Tingling in the area before a sore appears
• Fever
• Irritation from certain foods 
• Pain

Mouth sores can occur for any number of reasons including an accidental bite to the cheek when chewing, irritation from orthodontics or dentures, or bacterial infection.

When in doubt, if you suspect that something is wrong with your teeth or overall oral health, it’s best to schedule an appointment with your dentist in Charlottesville. After a gentle exam and perhaps some diagnostic tests such as x-rays, your dentist will suggest the best treatment to fix anything that ails you. 

About The Author

Dr. Jack T. Kayton

Dr. Jack T. Kayton has served families in Charlottesville and surrounding areas since 1994 through his general and family dentistry private practice. Believing that everyone deserves quality dental care, he donates his time to worthy causes. He volunteers at the Donated Dental Service and the Charlottesville Free Clinic. His professional affiliations include the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and the Academy of General Dentistry, among others.

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