Catching oral health problems early is crucial if preserving your teeth is important to you. While routine dental checkups are vital, you might need urgent dental care when you notice warning signs of oral disease. Your dentist in Gaffney, SC, Dr. Wes Turnage will share with you the signs to look out for.
Dry Mouth
Has your mouth become unusually dry lately? Dry mouth might not seem like a big deal at the start but as time progresses, it could set you up for oral problems such as periodontal disease.
Your mouth could be dry as a side effect of medication or due to specific health conditions. Your dentist can prescribe a special mouthwash that can help keep your mouth moist and reduce your risk of developing gum disease.
Mouth Sores
Several conditions could be responsible for your mouth sores. Superficial sores such as canker sores typically resolve on their own after a few days. If your sores persist beyond three weeks, you need to consult your Gaffney, SC, dentist, Dr. Turnage.
Mouth sores could be due to fungal, viral infections, or leukoplakia and your dentist needs to diagnose your condition for accurate treatment.
Toothache
Toothache isn't a good sign. Common causes of toothaches include abscess, cavity, broken tooth, or damaged filling.
Pain in your tooth can be distracting and make even the simplest tasks difficult. If you'd like to get some relief, seek the expert help of your dentist. During your dental appointment, your dentist will diagnose the cause of your pain and prescribe therapies.
Bleeding Gums
Bleeding gums are usually one of the early signs of gum disease. Your gums shouldn't be bleeding each time you brush or floss your teeth. Gum disease might also present other symptoms such as swollen, sore gums and bad breath.
Advanced gum disease can make your teeth loose in their sockets, eventually leading to tooth loss and jaw bone damage. That doesn't have to be your fate if you seek dental care immediately.
Oral Injury
A nasty fall or an automobile accident could knock out or damage a couple of teeth. You could get chipped or broken teeth and damage oral soft tissue. A dental visit can help you restore your teeth and go back to having a fully functional mouth.
Found something suspicious in your mouth? Call (864) 489-4708 to schedule your consultation with your dentist in Gaffney, SC, Dr. Turnage today.
