Pain Or Swelling In Mouth
At some point in our lives many of us have dealt with mouth pain, such as bleeding gums, sensitivity, or a burning sensation. Swelling and pain can happen in various places in the mouth such as the roof of the mouth, the inside of the cheeks, along the gums, and anywhere on the tongue. If you have any severe pain or swelling in your mouth you should contact your dentist as soon as possible.
It is very important to determine the cause of any swelling or discomfort in your mouth, whether mild or severe, so that you can make sure to get proper care.
Sores in the Mouth
There are various causes for mouth sores. Here we will focus on mouth sores appearing inside the mouth (rather than sores appearing on the outside of the mouth, such as cold sores). The mouth sores we most commonly find inside the mouth are canker sores. Easily distinguishable because of the appearance of a red border around a white lesion, canker sores are small sized ulcers usually found on the roof of the mouth, on the tongue, or on the inside of the cheek. Often a tingling or burning sensation is experienced, even before the sores are visible. Though usually canker sores heal without treatment, you should see your dentist if the there is persistent pain from the sores. Sometimes an antibiotic, antimicrobial mouth rinse, or corticosteroid is needed to help fully heal a canker sore. Any other kinds of growths, or lesions or sores in the mouth should be seen by a dentist since some mouth sores can be an indication of oral cancer.
Mouth or Tooth Injury
Various kinds of injury to the mouth can cause serious swelling or pain. Falling, biting the lips, scratching the gums on food, cracking the teeth, burning the tongue, are all injuries that can cause damage. If there is a cracked tooth, sensitivity to temperature can occur, and pain while chewing is possible. Depending on the severity of damage dental treatment may be required.
Decay of Teeth
Occasional pain that is sharp or any throbbing without an obvious cause can indicate tooth decay. If tenderness is experienced while eating or any sensitivity to temperature develops this can be a sign of a cavity that needs to be treated. A milder cavity usually requires just a filling (tooth-colored). For severe decay, sometimes a root canal is what is called for. If you have severe decay, a root canal may be needed. Root canals are not a cause for stress however, as they help address and relieve any pain caused by decay.
Dryness of The Mouth
An issue called dry mouth, in which the salivary glands aren’t effectively keeping the inside of the mouth well lubricated and moist, can sometimes develop into chronic condition. Saliva functions in various ways inside the mouth, such as cleansing and/or rinsing the teeth of bacteria and debris, as well as inhibiting erosion of the teeth from acids. If your mouth often feels kind of parched, or if you often get bad breath, cracked lips, swelling near the roof of your mouth, mouth sores, or a rough tongue you may have dry mouth. Less severe cases can be often be relieved by intaking more fluids, especially water, and eating saliva stimulating foods, like almonds and carrots. More serious cases of dry mouth, however, usually require a a visit to the dentist. The cause of dry mouth can be determined by your dentist, as well as the optimal treatment, such as medication or artificial saliva to help increase and stimulate production of saliva.
Gum Disease
Among American adults, one of the most frequent oral health issues is gum disease. Gingivitis, which is the earliest form of gum disease, starts as plaque builds up along the gums and teeth. Eating away at healthy structures of the gums and mouth, plaque often causes bad breath, as well as swollen and/or bleeding gums. With regular dental attention and care, including careful flossing and brushing, gingivitis can be stopped, and even reversed. However, if left uncared for, gingivitis can progress into a more intense kind of gum disease known as periodontitis. Gum erosion, bone loss, and loose teeth can occur with periodontitis. Gum disease can be destructive, but for most people, it is actually not hard to prevent. Regular dental visits and cleanings are an important part of gum disease prevention. If you are experiencing any signs of gingivitis, and or any pain for swelling, make sure to contact your dentist immediately.