The Causes of Gum and Tooth Problems and How to Avoid Them

If you maintain a good cleaning routine for your teeth and gums, you will not have to worry much about getting toothaches and gum-related issues. However, there is always a small chance that dental problems will still occur, and if they do, a visit to the dentist might be the best solution.

That said, prevention is always the best cure. If you are worried about getting toothaches and gum issues, here’s what causes them to help you prevent them from developing.

Gum Problems

A healthy set of gum should feel firm under the touch and generally does not bleed. However, even healthy gums can still bleed because you may be brushing too hard or that the toothbrush you’re using has hard bristles. If your gums continue to bleed even when using a soft-bristled brush and gentle brushing techniques, you might have a condition that you need to address.

One of the most common gum issues is gingivitis. Gingivitis can easily be caught because its symptoms are quite noticeable: red, swollen gums that bleed easily. While you might not feel pain, pulling out your toothbrush and seeing blood is a good sign you have gingivitis.

Another common gum problem is periodontitis, a severe infection that damages healthy oral tissue. It is caused by long-term infections in the gums and can cause your gums to easily bleed and your teeth to eventually fall out.

Toothaches

A healthy tooth is one that does not cause any pain when touched, nor when you eat something hot, cold, sweet, or sour. If any of your teeth hurt in any way, there is likely a problem that you also need to address. 

If the pain occurs when eating certain foods, you are probably dealing with a sensitive tooth. There are many possible causes for this condition. Milder cases are usually due to receded gums or worn-down teeth, while severe sensitivity can mean tooth damage, like a crack.

However, toothaches can stem from more than just sensitivity. There are other causes, such as infections around the tooth, swollen gums, injury to the pulp, and more. It can even be caused by vitamin deficiencies, alcohol and drug use, and diseases such as diabetes.

Conclusion

While there are many causes of gum and tooth problems, the most common one is poor oral hygiene. As such, you must know how to care for your oral health properly. If you need a quick summary, remember to brush and floss at least twice a day. Do not forget to drink plenty of water, and keep your mouth hydrated to stave off bacterial growth and infections.

That said, vitamin deficiencies and even certain medicines can cause your gums to bleed and swell. With so many possible causes, it can be challenging to look after every aspect of your dental health. This is why we highly recommend that you visit a dentist regularly. They will identify the root cause of any dental issue you might have and help you ensure it does not come back in the future. 

Ivy Rose DDS is a dental practice offering restorative and cosmetic dentistry, covering dental bridges, crowns, implants, and more. If you are looking for a family dentist in Mansfield to care for your tooth or gum problems, schedule a visit with us today.