8 reasons why you should NEVER ignore oral problems

Did you know bad breath signifies diabetes risk!

By: Bhavyajyoti Chilukoti | | Updated: December 2, 2015 2:19 pm

Be it bad breath or mouth ulcers, most of us tend to ignore common oral problems. And instead of visiting a dentist to treat the condition, we take the natural route (which usually provides only temporary relief). But did you know that often oral problems indicate underlying gum diseases or oral cancer!

Bad breath: It could be due to a simple reason like not rinsing your mouth properly after eating or removing the food stuck between your teeth. This in turn causes bacterial growth, leading to foul smell. According to Dr Amit Saraf, MD FCPS, Consultant Physician, Jupiter Hospital, poor oral hygiene is one of the most common cause, however, bad breath might also indicate other health concerns like diabetes, renal failure, liver failure, acid reflux and respiratory ailments. Also read about natural tips to prevent bad breath.

Dry mouth: This indicates a definitely underlying disease. It could be an early sign of various diseases like diabetes, hypertension, anemia, autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease. In addition, it might increase your risk of fungal infections and dental decay. So instead of ignoring this condition, consult a dentist to know the exact cause.

Toothache: Don’t ignore even the slightest of toothaches as it might worsen further and give you sleepless nights. Also, an infection of a tooth or the jaw is a common cause for this, but this doesn’t rule out severe health complications. It might signify a sinus infection and when coupled with a jaw pain, might also be a warning sign of a heart attack. If you have been experiencing intermittent yet shooting pain in the face along with toothache, you might be suffering from trigeminal neuralgia, a nerve disorder.

Dental plaque: A common hazard of not brushing your teeth properly or maintaining food oral hygiene, dental plaque can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. The bacteria from the inflamed gums travel through the blood and might attach to the blood vessels. This in turn, might lead to formation of clots and hardening of the arteries that might put your heart at risk of various cardiac problems and heart attack.

Bleeding gums: Deficiency of vitamin C and vitamin K is one of the common causes of bleeding gums followed by lack of proper brushing and flossing techniques. Also, misaligned teeth might increase your risk of bruising the gums while brushing or cleaning. But other health problems that might signify bleeding gums as a key symptom include hormonal problems, idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) and haemophilia. It might be one of the early signs of leukaemia as well.

Red/white tongue: If you have a red tongue, it means you have vitamin B 12 deficiency. And blue tongue indicates an underlying respiratory illness or infection. According to Dr. R.K.Singal, Principal Consultant & HOD Internal Medicine, BLK Super Speciality Hospital, New Delhi, ‘A thick white coat over your tongue might indicate bacterial illness. And if you have a sore tongue, it could be a sign of canker sores or colitis.’ Here’s what your tongue says about your health.

Foul taste: A foul or unpleasant taste could be a warning sign of inflammation of the upper respiratory tract, disorders of the nervous system and gastrointestinal disorders. You can even know your risk of getting a common cold and flu from your taste. And diseases like cancer, stroke, diabetes and hyperparathyroidism also lead to foul breath and a bad taste in your mouth.

Dental cavities: You might be aware of the fact that not rinsing your mouth after meals or eating foods that stick to your teeth or gums might increase your risk of suffering from dental cavities. But if you follow proper hygiene and sanitation and still face the problem, it might be a sign of bacterial infection and low immunity. And if untreated or unattended, it might lead to teeth sensitivity and gum disease. Here are 10 signs of dental cavities you didn’t know about.

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Published : November 7, 2015 10:22 am | Updated:December 2, 2015 2:19 pm

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