How Can I Tell If My Mouth Is Healthy
Having an unhealthy mouth is not always obvious. Small oral problems can often be indicators of a bigger health issue. There are a few oral conditions can actually help you determine whether your mouth is healthy.
Bad Breath Could Mean Bad Health
Bad breath is typically caused by buildup of bacteria in the mouth. The bacteria causes inflammation and gives off the odor or gas that smells like sulfur. Medically bad breath, called Halitosis, can be a result of poor dental health or may be a sign of other health problems.
Dry Mouth Is Unwanted
Saliva is very important for a mouth to be healthy, so dry mouth be a very serious problem. We need saliva to moisten and cleanse our mouths as well as to digest foods. Dry mouth can be very uncomfortable and can affect your overall health.
Salivary Gland Stones Should be Removed
Saliva lubricates your mouth, protects it against bacteria and helps break up food. Needless to say it’s pretty important. A salivary gland stone is a calcified structure that can form inside your salivary gland and can block saliva from flowing into your mouth.
Tonsil Stones Are Bacteria-Filled
Tonsils are filled with small craters that catch bacteria and keep your mouth clean. When bacteria and other materials become trapped in your tonsils, the debris can become concentrated with white formations inside the pockets.
Canker Sores Caused by Stress
Although the exact cause of canker sores is unknown, stress and injury of the tissue is thought to be the cause of most of these sores. If you have severe canker sores that spread, occur often and cause a fever, they could be a sign of an underlying health issue.
Keep a Healthy Mouth
Keeping up normal oral hygiene is the best way to keep your mouth happy and healthy. Follow these regimens to ensure you’re taking the best care of your mouth.
- See the dentist every six months
- Drink less soda, try a flavored water instead
- Watch the amount of sugar you eat
- Practice proper brushing techniques
- Floss, floss, and floss again
To talk to your dentist about your mouth’s health, schedule an appointment today!
