Your dentist can tell a lot about your health or pick up on indicators that may suggest an underlying problem. For example, specific tooth stains are linked to tetracycline antibiotics. Your dentist may note through an exam that you were on this medication at some time or another.
Of course, there are more substantial issues to consider when examining the teeth and gums, including:
- Poor Oral Hygiene
- Gum Disease
- Recurring Decay
- Oral Cancer
In some cases, poor oral hygiene can be indicative of dementia. Gum disease or periodontitis, despite excellent oral hygiene and regular dental care, may suggest hormonal changes as seen in pregnancy, tobacco use, or diabetes. Recurring decay can result from dry mouth, which can indicate autoimmune conditions, such as Sjögren's syndrome. Other dry mouth culprits include salivary gland dysfunction, smoking, or kidney issues.
When you visit your Wilmington, MA, dentist, it’s important to share your medical history and list of medications—anything that has changed since your last dental checkup and teeth cleaning. This helps your dentist look for specific and related oral health conditions.
When to Talk to Your Dentist
You should talk to your dentist at every dental visit—every six months. However, if you notice oral health changes between these checkups, it’s vital to call our dental office.
Oral health changes that need attention include but are not limited to:
- Elongated appearing teeth (gum recession)
- Gum redness or irritation
- Tooth pain or ongoing sensitivity
- Tooth discoloration
- Oral swelling or general changes
- Bleeding gums when brushing and flossing
- Loose or mobile teeth
- Chronic dry mouth that doesn’t improve
- Sores or lesions that don’t heal
If you’re unsure about an oral health change, it’s crucial to contact us.
Contact Your Dentist in Wilmington, MA
If you have an oral health concern or if it’s time to book your next checkup and teeth cleaning, call us today at (978) 657-4550. We accept CareCredit.