Caring for your mouth through routine brushing and flossing is necessary to keep infections at bay. The mouth hosts bacteria, and, if left to accumulate, will cause infection. Early detection of mouth infection is important to prevent serious health complications. Among the signs that your mouth has an infection include bad breath, red and swollen gums, and mouth sores.
Bad Breath
Bad breath could result from certain drinks or eating foods with a pungent smell such as garlic. It could also result from gum disease. If you practice poor oral hygiene, bacteria and food debris will accumulate in your mouth, causing gum disease. Bad breath is also a sign of tooth decay. A decayed tooth will be sensitive to cold and hot temperatures. It will also be painful and discolored, requiring restoration or removal.
Red and Swollen Gums
If your gums are painful or bleed when you brush your teeth, it is a sign of an oral infection. Infected gums result when harmful mouth bacteria find access into your soft tissue and cause inflammation. It is common in individuals with diabetes due to their reduced resistance to infection. If untreated, gum disease will advance into severe periodontal disease, which can be fatal.
Mouth Sores
Unusual white, red, or yellow patches in the mouth are a sign of infection. These patches could be mild and treatable canker sores but could also be a sign of oral cancer. Thus, you should contact us if you notice any lesions, lumps, or patches in your soft tissues. Finally, while mouth infections are common, they are preventable with good oral hygiene. You can also keep the infections at bay by quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, and visiting us at least twice a year for a dental checkup. Dental checkups ensure early detection and treatment of infections, preventing their advancement into severe disease. For more details on the signs and treatment of an infected mouth, contact our office today.
Caring for your mouth through routine brushing and flossing is necessary to keep infections at bay. The mouth hosts bacteria, and, if left to accumulate, will cause infection. Early detection of mouth infection is important to prevent serious health complications. Among the signs that your mouth has an infection include bad breath, red and swollen gums, and mouth sores.