5 Signs You’re Not Taking Care of Your Teeth (And What to Do About It)

Statistics suggest that around 1 in 3 Australians have untreated tooth decay. By having poor oral hygiene, you put yourself at risk of developing all kinds of health problems. So what are some of the telltale signs that you need to take a trip to the dentist?

This article lists five of the biggest reasons why you should visit the dentist.

1. Yellow or Stained Teeth

If you have yellow or stained teeth, it could indicate that you have poor oral hygiene. This could lead to various problems, such as plaque and tartar. If you notice that you have stained teeth, it’s vital that you make an appointment to visit the dentist.

2. Bad Breath

Bad breath or halitosis can also indicate significant dental problems. Generally, the leading cause of bad breath is bacterial buildup such as tartar on your teeth. This may mean that you haven’t kept up with regular dental checkups, and you’ve allowed tartar to build up.

With this said, in some cases, bad breath can be caused by certain foods and drinks. For example, if you eat onions or drink coffee, that could temporarily cause bad breath.

3. Pain or Discomfort

Of course, one of the main signs that you need to visit a dental practice is when you feel any pain and discomfort in your gums or teeth. Quite often, serious dental pain is minor, to begin with. If you address things quickly, you’ll likely avoid the worst of the pain.

On the other hand, if you keep putting it off, you might end up dealing with a lot of pain. The best thing to do is to consult with your dentist.

4. Bleeding Gums

If you experience bleeding gums, it’s another telltale sign you need to visit your family dentist as soon as possible. This is because bleeding gums are a sign of significant inflammation and gum disease.

It’s vital that you treat gum issues as soon as possible. If you don’t, it could lead to tooth loss, receding gums, and gum disease. Thankfully, bleeding gums can easily be reversed with the right dental care.

5. Your Teeth are Sensitive to Hot or Cold

Finally, if you experience sensitivity in your teeth, it could also indicate a problem. Typically this kind of sensitivity may indicate you have tooth decay or gum disease. Additionally, all your teeth have protective enamel, but they can wear away over time.

When that happens, this exposes the sensitive under-layer. Gum issues can also cause sensitivity because they may expose the tooth’s root.

In either of these 2 cases, you’ll need to visit a dental practice as soon as possible.

Poor Oral Hygiene Can Lead to Problems

As you can see, you can’t afford to maintain poor oral hygiene and not regularly visit the dentist. Dental issues may start small, but these problems can quickly become painful in a short space of time if left unaddressed.

If you’re experiencing any of the issues described in this article, contact us today to schedule an appointment.