OPEN WIDE
From ulcers to your gums – what your mouth says about your health and when to worry
Plus a detailed description of how to brush your teeth properly
BAD breath and mouth ulcers are common, but they may signal an underlying health problem, too.
This World Oral Health Day, experts are raising awareness that 'a happy mouth is a happy body'.
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Looking after your teeth with a proper oral care routine - brushing and flossing twice a day - can keep your whole body healthy.
That's because poor dental health has been linked to heart disease, diabetes, dementia and cancer.
These conditions can also cause symptoms in the mouth, sometimes those that are so common we don't think twice about them.
Dentist Dr Rahul Nehra of The Smile Gallery reveals all...
BLEEDING GUMS
Dr Rahul says: "Persistent bleeding gums, especially during brushing or flossing, can indicate gum disease.
"This is often caused by plaque build-up along the gumline, leading to inflammation."
Gum disease is common but that does not mean it should be ignored.
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It can lead to bad breath, teeth falling out, and is linked with a number of health conditions including cardiovascular disease, lung infections and pregnancy complications, the NHS says, adding you should see a dentist if your gums bleed.
Dr Rahul: "It’s essential to address bleeding gums promptly to prevent further complications like gum recession and tooth loss.
"Proper oral hygiene is crucial, along with professional dental cleanings to remove plaque and tartar build-up."
These are the 4 life-threatening risks of not brushing your teeth every day
Swollen gums - a symptom of gum disease - may also signal pregnancy.
BAD BREATH
Bad breath can usually be put down to your lunch, having a cold or being unwell.
But if it doesn't go away - perhaps someone has told you, or you notice it about yourself - see a professional.
Dr Rahul says: "Chronic bad breath, or halitosis, can be a sign of various dental issues, including poor oral hygiene, gum disease or cavities.
"But it could be an underlying health problem such as diabetes or gastrointestinal issues."
Bad breath caused by diabetes may be fruity smelling, similar to rotting apples.
Dr Rahul says: "Dental check-ups can help identify and address the root cause.
"Improving bad breath typically involves maintaining good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing twice daily and flossing."
Other causes of bad breath - depending on the smell ommitted - include kidney or liver problems, or acid reflux.
What are the signs of mouth cancer?
Symptoms of mouth cancer can affect any part of your mouth including the gums, tongue, inside the cheeks, or lips.
Symptoms can include:
- A mouth ulcer in your mouth that lasts more than 3 weeks
- A red or white patch inside your mouth
- A lump inside your mouth or on your lip
- Pain inside your mouth
- Difficulty swallowing
- Difficulty speaking or a hoarse (croaky) voice
- A lump in your neck or throat
- Losing weight without trying
LUMPS AND SORES
Mouth sores (ulcers) are common and usually just need some topical treatment for comfort.
They tend to go away over a week or two - but any more, you should see a GP or dentist.
Dr Rahul says: "While occasional mouth sores are often harmless, persistent lumps or sores that don’t heal within two weeks could be signs of more serious conditions such as oral cancer.
"Other concerning signs include white or red patches, numbness, or difficulty moving the jaw.
"If you notice any of these symptoms, seeing a dentist or doctor for further evaluation is crucial.
"Mouth sores may benefit from topical treatments or prescribed medications."
WOBBLY TEETH
It's something we typically only have nightmares about.
Losing teeth can be scary, as can having wobbly teeth.
"Loose teeth can indicate advanced gum disease or tooth decay," says Dr Rahul.
It may also warn of osteoporosis - a weakening of the bones that can affect the jaw - and pregnancy.
Dr Rahul says: "Seeking dental care as soon as possible can help preserve remaining teeth, possibly through procedures like scaling and root planing or dental restorations."
DIFFICULTY SWALLOWING
Also known as dysphagia, difficulty swallowing can be caused by various factors, "including oral infections, inflamed tonsils, or even throat cancer," says Dr Rahul.
He adds: "Seek medical or dental attention promptly for evaluation and treatment."
It is recommended to see your GP if for three weeks or more, it has felt as though there is something small stuck in your throat, it's difficult to swallow food or there is pain when doing so.
Other throat cancer symptoms include weight loss, eat pain, a lump in the neck, shortness of breath, a cough and a hoarse or croaky voice.
CROAKY VOICE
Dr Rahul says: "A croaky voice can result from various conditions affecting the throat or vocal cords, including acid reflux, respiratory infections, or vocal cord nodules or polyps."
Usually vocal cord nodules or polyps occur as a result of misusing or overusing the the voice, such as by shouting a lot or singing.
Dr Rahul adds: "In some cases, poor oral hygiene or throat irritation can contribute to a croaky voice.
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"If you experience persistent hoarseness or voice changes, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional.
"Addressing a croaky voice may involve lifestyle modifications, such as avoiding irritants like tobacco smoke."
Are you brushing your teeth correctly?
Dentists recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day, ideally in the morning and before bedtime.
Dr Rhona Eskander, dentist and co-founder of PÄRLA Toothpaste Tabs, says: “Brushing should last for approximately two minutes each time.
“Brush gently in circular motions, ensuring you cover all tooth surfaces.”
Not too hard
Dentist Dr Alfonso Rao, or Define Clinic, Beaconsfield, Bucks said it's essential to find a balance between brushing effectively and not applying too much pressure.
"Brushing too hard can cause harm to the soft tissues and tooth surface," he said.
Which toothpaste?
Dr Eskhander recommends using a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste as fluoride helps prevent tooth decay.
“You can also choose toothpaste with ingredients like baking soda for whitening or potassium nitrate for sensitivity."
Don't spit
Faizan Zaheer, from Bupa Dental Care, says: “People tend to rinse their mouths after brushing.
"However, this causes the removal of fluoride from the teeth, which means it can’t benefit by strengthening the minerals in the enamel.”
Rinsing with mouthwash is another habit to drop.
Faizan says: “It usually has a lower fluoride concentration than toothpaste.
"Therefore, it will dilute the fluoride concentration in the mouth if used after brushing.”
Wait after eating
It's not uncommon for people to brush their teeth right after breakfast. But wait at least half an hour before doing this, experts say.
Celebrity Harley Street dentist Dr Richard Marques said: “The precious enamel that coats the teeth is temporarily weakened after eating due to the acids present in food, so by brushing right after you eat, you risk damaging it.”
Floss every day
Using floss or small interdental brushes removes bacteria between your teeth.
Change toothrush head
It's recommended to change your toothbrush head on electric toothbrushes at least once every three months.
Dr Viren Vithlani, specialist periodontist and co-founder of MyMouth, explained: “The main reason for that is that you tend to find the bristles of the brush flare over time and then they become less effective, so you’re not removing plaque and bacteria as effectively.
“That means you’re leaving potentially more bacteria on the teeth which is increasing your risk of gum problems or decay.
“The second reason is from a hygiene perspective.
“Most people will leave brushes out and not covered so you tend to get bacteria colonising on the brush bristles themselves.”
Tongue cleaning
Your tongue can also harbour bacteria, which can lead to bad breath, so keeping it clean is vital.
You can use a tongue scraper for this, or even your toothbrush.
Gently brush side to side as well and back and forth, before rinsing out your mouth with water or a mouthwash.