You’re going about your busy day, and while enjoying a delicious meal, you feel a sharp pain on one side of your mouth. Or you’re brushing your teeth and notice that your gums are bleeding when they weren’t bleeding the day before.
Now you’re worrying that something might be wrong, but how could a dental issue happen so suddenly and without warning?
The truth is that dental problems aren’t usually sudden; they progress slowly and silently, catching you by surprise.
What Causes “Sudden” Dental Issues?
There are numerous reasons for sudden dental discomfort or other issues, including the following:
- Tooth decay — Cavities often don’t cause pain until the decay reaches your tooth’s inner nerve chamber. So, even though you may have had a cavity for some time, it may not bother you until it’s larger and more serious. That’s why a routine exam and a clean every six months is essential to your oral health.
- Hairline fractures — If you grind your teeth or bite your nails, you could have small cracks in your teeth. These hairline fractures usually don’t start to hurt until one of them reaches your tooth’s nerves. The best way to avoid these issues is to wear a mouthguard and avoid biting on hard objects, including pens and fingernails.
- Gum inflammation — When you don’t brush and floss regularly enough, plaque and tartar can build up on your teeth and gums a little at a time. Other contributors are smoking, poor nutrition, hormonal changes and diabetes. So, although it may seem like one day your gums aren’t bleeding and the next day they are, it’s a slow progression.
- Gum recession — Untreated gum disease, aggressive brushing and poor oral hygiene can cause your gums to recede so slowly you may not notice. Then, once your tooth’s roots are exposed, you may begin to experience extreme sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures.
Looking for Dental Care in Brisbane, QLD?
If you need a dentist in Brisbane, the experienced team at Be Well Dental will happily assist you! We strive to help every patient achieve a healthy, beautiful smile, so if you have concerns you’d like to discuss, you can call us on (07) 3846 2002 to book a visit.
We hope to hear from you soon.