Maintaining a healthy mouth not only helps you keep your smile bright, but is also crucial for your overall well-being. Avoiding good oral hygiene habits can lead to various health issues elsewhere in your body, which is why it’s important to keep your teeth and gums healthy and strong. Here are eight symptoms of poor oral hygiene:
- Gum Disease. Bleeding, swollen, or receding gums are often signs of gum disease, a consequence of inadequate oral care. Left untreated, it can escalate to tooth loss and other health complications.
- Persistent Toothaches. Lingering tooth pain or sensitivity could denote underlying issues like infection or decay, demanding immediate dental attention.
- Bad Breath. Persistent bad breath, even post-brushing and mouthwash, may signal leftover food particles fostering bacterial growth in your mouth.
- Discolored Teeth. Smoking and certain foods and drinks can stain teeth, compounded by subpar oral hygiene. Regular brushing and dental cleanings can counteract surface stains.
- Cavities. Dark spots, visible holes, or tooth sensitivity could indicate cavities, stemming from poor oral hygiene practices.
- Tartar and Plaque. Without diligent brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into tartar, fostering gum disease and cavities that necessitate professional cleaning.
- Tongue Appearance. A healthy tongue is pink and smooth, while a coated or discolored tongue may indicate bacterial or fungal presence, or other oral health issues.
- Dry Mouth. Long-lasting dry mouth, often due to medications or health conditions, heightens the risk of tooth decay and gum disease by inhibiting saliva's cleansing and acid-neutralizing properties.
Recognizing any of these symptoms? Your mouth might be telling you to brush up your oral hygiene routine and book a dental check-up. The good news is that regularly brushing, flossing, and dental office cleanings can keep your smile in tip-top shape.