Common Signs of Poor Oral Hygiene

It’s important to pay attention to your oral health, as poor oral hygiene can easily lead to tooth decay, along with a litany of other problems. It’s best to treat any problems as soon as they arise, so as to avoid further teeth and gum damage, so be sure to stay on the lookout for these common signs of poor dental hygiene.

Dry mouth

Dry mouth occurs when there isn’t enough saliva in the mouth and can accelerate tooth decay, so it’s important to stay hydrated (preferably with water) throughout the day to encourage saliva production. Dry mouth can also be a symptom of certain medications, so if you’re experiencing this condition it may be worth discussing alternative medications with your doctor.

Gum disease

Gingivitis or gum inflammation is relatively common in adults and can be easily treated, however if it is not addressed it can progress to periodontitis – a far more serious stage of gum disease. Gingivitis is caused by an excess plaque buildup on the teeth and its symptoms include redness and swelling of the gums and/or gums that bleed easily when brushed. Periodontitis, however, leads to the gum tissue pulling away from the teeth, creating the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. Signs of periodontitis include red, swollen, or bleeding gums, receding gums, pain when chewing, and loose or sensitive teeth. It’s always best to treat gum disease as early as possible and keep it at bay with regular brushing and dental appointments.

Plaque buildup

Plaque buildup is a pretty obvious sign of poor dental hygiene, and may be due to poor brushing technique, using an old or otherwise ineffective toothbrush, using the wrong kind of toothpaste, or even excessive snacking. If you notice plaque buildup, change up your oral hygiene routine until you see an improvement.

Sensitivity to hot and cold food or drink

If you don’t usually have sensitive teeth and start experiencing sudden, sharp pain when consuming hot or cold food or beverages, this may be a sign of tooth decay. It’s best to visit a dentist when experiencing any type of tooth pain so that they can determine the cause and administer appropriate treatment.

Visible cavities

Although it’s pretty hard to get a good look at the inside of your own mouth, try to pay attention to the overall appearance of your teeth and be on the lookout for brown or black spots, as these may be cavities. The underlying cause of cavities are oral bacteria and a diet high in sugar/starch, which are exacerbated by poor oral hygiene. If you notice visible cavities, contact your dentist as soon as possible.

Eden Rise Dental are your family friendly dental clinic in Berwick. We’ll work with you to ensure good oral hygiene practices, keeping your teeth looking and feeling healthy.