Symptoms Patients Hide from Their Dentist

The value of the knowledge, tools, and techniques of an expert dentist cannot be overestimated for oral health. Many men and women avoid this necessity for as long as possible because they are afraid of what might be discovered. Frankly, it may take lots of time and pain before some adults realize that the discomfort or pain of a checkup and cleaning is insignificant compared to tooth, gum, or bone loss.

It is hard to believe that in this day and age there are all kinds of people who experience discomfort, pain, and/or infections, yet they refuse to receive help from the local dentist. Oral health issues can actually begin as early as with one's primary teeth. It is a precursor for issues with secondary teeth when infections have been present on the primary teeth. Now that it is widely known that oral hygiene directly affects overall health, it is even more surprising so many people willfully refuse dental care.

Sadly, the symptoms of cavities and gum disease have become so commonplace that some have come to ignore them altogether. They put off treatment until the pain becomes so excruciating they can't eat, drink, sleep, work, or even summon the energy to get out of bed. Many individuals that skip going to the dentist are concerned about one or more of three things: the costs, the temporary pain of the procedure required, and the maintenance. These same men and women would rather maintain their detrimental routines than acknowledge that their mouth is warning them of serious danger ahead.

The five painful secrets that people keep from their family and dentist revolve around warning signs that they attempt to ignore. The five symptoms that go on ignored for weeks, months, or occur off and on for years are brown or black spots on teeth; sensitivity and pain during eating or drinking; swollen, red, pus-leaking or bleeding gums; shifting or loose teeth; and recurring sores throughout the mouth. The truly sad fact about men and women ignoring these symptoms is that if they are caught early, there are very simple procedures that can save as much of the teeth and gums as possible. Deep cleanings, laser cavity removal, solution treatment, and home applications can easily remedy many of these concerns. However, if an individual does not take it seriously or tell their dentist about their concerns, the symptoms will progress. Danger lies in putting off the diagnosis and subsequent treatment, which can salvage one's natural teeth before pulling and replacement become necessary.