Doctors Hannah Kinsella and Kamila Azimova from Kiln Lane Dental Hospital revealed warning signs that everyone should look for in their mouths, which can provide a good idea about their health. Here are the key signs, according to the British newspaper Daily Mail:
**Gum Bleeding**
It can indicate a hormonal imbalance. Cosmetic dentist Dr. Hannah Kinsella explained that "swollen or bleeding gums, which typically bleed when brushing teeth, may be a sign of gingivitis, indicating that your hormone levels are out of balance. Hormonal changes or imbalances that occur at different stages of our lives can put some women at risk of gingivitis, which can happen if normal hormone levels change, especially during the second trimester of pregnancy or during menopause. If left untreated, this condition can lead to inflammation of the gum ligaments and bones, and in severe cases, tooth loss."
**Circular Red Growth on Gums**
It can be an indicator of pregnancy in women. Dr. Kinsella explains that pyogenic granuloma is a circular red growth that appears on the gums and can bleed easily. Like most gum problems during pregnancy, this occurs due to hormonal changes and usually resolves after childbirth, but it is still important to check as it can develop into more serious gum diseases for a few women.
**Flat Teeth**
It can indicate stress. Dr. Kinsella states: "Stress affects our entire bodies, including our teeth. Teeth grinding is often associated with tension and anxiety and is manifested in worn or flat teeth." Many people who grind their teeth are unaware they are doing so as it occurs at night while they are asleep. Botox injections can help reduce teeth grinding.
**Tooth Sensitivity**
It may result from repeated vomiting. Repeated vomiting, such as with patients suffering from bulimia or vomiting during pregnancy, can lead to teeth being coated with strong stomach acids that can erode enamel and increase sensitivity over time as the nerve endings in the underlying layers become exposed and more prone to decay. It is also better to avoid brushing teeth immediately after vomiting as this can scratch the enamel. Rinse your mouth with water and then with mouthwash.
**White Spots**
They can indicate HIV or cancer. According to Dr. Kinsella, white spots in the mouth are usually harmless and can result from smoking or other irritations, or even oral thrush. However, in very rare cases, white spots in the mouth can be a sign of HIV or cancer. If you have white spots, there is a slight risk that they could develop into oral cancer over time. Treating white spots is not always necessary, but quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption can help eliminate them.
**Chronic Ulcers**
Chronic ulcers can indicate oral cancer. Cosmetic dentist Dr. Kamila Azimova explains that oral cancer occurs when a tumor develops in the mouth, including the lips, tongue, gums, and tonsils. Symptoms of oral cancer include persistent painful mouth ulcers, lumps that do not go away, and unexplained loosening or numbness of teeth. Sometimes, it can appear as red or white spots on the lining of the mouth and tongue. These symptoms are often detected by a dentist, so it is important to consult your dentist if you notice anything unusual in your mouth because if detected early, it is usually treatable.
**Red Tongue**
It can indicate chronic iron deficiency. According to Dr. Azimova, the tongue becomes red, irritated, and inflamed due to chronic iron deficiency. The appearance of the tongue can change to varying degrees of red and increase in size when iron levels are low, and its texture can also change, causing mouth pain and cracks in the corners of the lips.
**Gum Pigmentation**
Gum pigmentation can be a sign of Addison's disease. Dr. Azimova explains: "The color of gums varies from person to person and is often associated with your skin color, much like freckles on the skin. However, gum pigmentation can also be a sign of Addison's disease, a disorder that prevents the adrenal glands from producing enough hormones. Another cause of gum pigmentation is Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, a hereditary condition that can increase the risk of polyps or cancer. One early symptom is dark blue or brown freckles on the mouth, fingers, and toes."
