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When To Be Concerned About Dental Symptoms

Changes in our mouths and to our teeth can be alarming! Here are some details on when to seek a consult with your dentist.

Canker sores are ulcers that occur inside the mouth and not on the lips. They are not contagious and can be triggered by many different causes. Typically they go away on their own within 2 weeks.

Yeast infection of the mouth that can be seen in infants, denture wearers, people with diabetes, and during cancer treatment.

Halitosis or Bad Breath literally stinks. It can be embarrassing and make you really self conscious. Very often, there is a dental condition that is to blame. Symptoms of bad breath can be indicators of gum disease, cavities, bacteria, even some oral cancers. Brushing and mouth wash are only temporary fixes. See Dr. Rizza to make sure your frequent need for breath mints aren’t a warning sign of something more serious!

The Oral Cancer Foundation estimates that someone in the United States dies every hour from oral cancer. It is often curable, but early detection and treatment is crucial. Risk factors include tobacco (smoking and chewing) and alcohol use, vaping, and HPV diagnosis. If you notice sores, lumps, or changes in your mouth, a change in your bite and difficulty chewing or moving your tongue or jaw, please call Dr. Rizza for early detection of any serious conditions.

Many people suffer from sensitive teeth, hot, cold, pain when chewing. However, this may be an indication of a cracked tooth, failing filling, or tooth abscess. Be sure to make an appointment with us if you notice any changes to your mouth and teeth.

Tooth Decay or cavities, is second to the common cold as the most prevalent disease in the United States. This occurs when plaque combines with the sugars and/or starches of the food you eat. This combination produces acids that attack tooth enamel. Cavities are a risk at any age. As you age, you can develop cavities as your tooth enamel erodes. Brushing and flossing twice a day, eating health snacks, and avoiding sugary snacks and drinks, along with regular dental check-ups. are all ways to prevent decay. First Street Smiles trips are a great way to avoid tooth decay.

Gum disease is an infection of the gums surrounding the teeth. Periodontal disease causes tooth loss and in some studies, has been linked to heart disease.
Smoking is a significant risk factor that contributes to gum disease.

If you notice bad breath, red, swollen, tender, or bleeding gums, teeth sensitivity, or pain when chewing, come see us at First Street Smiles.

While cosmetic dental issues aren’t necessarily health related, not liking your smile can impact your confidence, cause low self esteem and and cause you to avoid sharing a full smile. This is no way to live, Smiling is the Best!

Luckily, we have so many options for you here at First Street Smiles to restore, repair and enhance any smile! Whether you seek to whiten, repair, or restore, we can give you a straight, pearly white smile! Come see us and learn your options!