Did you know that if you look in the mirror and really examine and look closely at your teeth, cheek, gums, and lips you can tell a lot about your oral health?
Below are some common clues and what they might mean:
- Bleeding or red swollen gums is a classic sign of gum disease or possibly a manifestation of a systemic illness.
- Receding gums is another sign of gum disease and/or perhaps a result of incorrect or destructive brushing habits
- Yellow teeth can be caused by staining, poor oral hygiene, smoking, or ingestion of certain medications
- Dark marks on teeth can possibly be an indicator of dental decay, staining (eg. coffee and tea), embedded food particles, or smoking remnants.
- White spots on the tongue, cheek, lips, gums can be a sign of pathology (abnormal tissue) which could be caused by a virus, bacteria, irritation or other possible sources that need to be evaluated promptly by a dental professional.
- Swollen lips, gums can be a sign of an active infection, allergy or other systemic problem.
- Crooked teeth, can be a sign of malocclusion (bad bite), which if left uncorrected, can lead to possible periodontal (gum) trauma.
- Dry mouth can be a side effect of medications, dehydration, or possibly a systemic disease.
It’s important to keep in mind, though, that while what we see in the mirror can give us some clues, it doesn’t tell us the whole story. I recommend that people always follow up their self- exams with a visit to their Dentist or Periodontist.
What about you — anything concerning you when you see your teeth in the mirror?
