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Signs of dental health

Mar 7, 2012

Cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues can seriously affect a person's health.

Behaviors That may be Telling you About Dental Disorders:

  • Avoids foods that are hot, cold, hard, crunchy, or chewy
  • Feels as if something is caught in the throat
  • Cupping chin or jaw in hand

Other factors that may indicate the presence of dental concerns:

  • Poor oral hygiene: Teeth need cleaning, many cavities
  • Bad breath
  • Red or bleeding gums
  • Dry mouth
  • Loose teeth
  • Can't open mouth as widely as usual
  • White or red patches inside the mouth; sores in the mouth or on the lips that don't heal in 7-10 days
  • Loss of weight due to pain when chewing, swallowing
  • Numbness over face or mouth area
  • Enlarged lymph nodes
  • Down syndrome--prone to gum disease
  • Prader-Willi syndrome--problems with tooth enamel
  • Inability to concentrate due to discomfort

Do you think someone's behavior may be telling you about dental problems? Talk with your doctor or other health care provider. They can work with you to learn whether this is the case.