Bleeding Gums
Sensitivity
Bleeding gums usually are first noticed with bleeding after brushing teeth. T his can be a sign of more serious problems such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, stroke and tooth loss, among other things. Further signs accompanied by bleeding gums that indicate gingivitis (infection of the gums) are sore and swollen gums, formation of deep pockets between teeth and gums, loose or shifting teeth, changes in bite and receding gums.
This kind of pain is a sharp, stabbing sensation that comes and goes upon exposure to certain stimuli. T eeth can be sensitive to different things such as cold, heat and sugary foods. P aying attention to what brings about the pain can give insight to the root of the problem.
The main cause of bleeding gums and, in turn, gingivitis is the bacteria in the mouth that will grow exponentially when proper care is not being given to the teeth and mouth. T he bacteria will turn into plaque and over time cause inflammation of the gums. D epending on the severity of the gum disease, patients will require either a deep cleaning from a dentist or specialty care from a periodontist who specializes in diseases of the gums.
Sensitivity of teeth to cold (air, food, or drinks) is most likely caused by gum recession, wear and tear of a cavity or enamel loss, which results in exposed dentin (the dense, bony tissue underneath the enamel that makes up the bulk of a tooth). S ensitivity to heat may indicate a small cavity, an abscess (infection), a crack in a tooth or severe decay. S ensitivity to sugary foods is most likely caused by decay. To treat tooth sensitivity, it is first important to see a dentist to ensure that the sensitivity is not caused by cavity or abscess. T hese issues will require professional treatment. S ensitivity resulting from enamel loss and exposed dentin, however, can be treated by applying desensitizers, which can be applied at the dental office. T his will require re-application when the sensitivity returns. O ver-the-counter desensitizers can also be helpful.
Chronic Bad Breath
19
total wellness ▪ winter 2012
Although bad breath may seem easy to fix, chronic bad breath, or halitosis, is persistent and is usually a sign of far more complicated and severe problems. Halitosis can be caused by the sulfur-producing bacteria on the tongue and throat, tooth decay, gum problems and abscesses and infections in the gum that produce bad smelling pus. Dental attention is required to identify the source of the problem and proper oral hygiene is required to prevent reoccurrence.