All of us want to make a lasting impression on the people we meet in our day-to-day lives. And a sparkling smile goes a long way in making this perfect introductory impression a reality. Statistics have consistently shown that people with an attractive smile tend to make a more positive first impression and can be more successful in their personal as well as their professional lives.

Beyond their cosmetic value, your teeth also have a direct impact on your health and your digestive fitness. Having a healthy set of teeth ensures that you can get proper nutrition and enjoy fibrous vegetables as well as your favorite cold delicacies such as ice creams and sodas. Hence, it is vital for individuals to take care of their oral hygiene and watch out for early signs of decay and other dental diseases.

Here are a few signs of tooth decay that indicate you need to book an emergency dental appointment in Edmonton:

Common Causes of Tooth Decay

The presence of certain kinds of bacteria in your mouth can lead to an excess production of acids, eroding your teeth enamel and resulting in decay and cavities. If not treated timely then, these minor defects can result in extreme pain and even loss of a tooth.

Excess consumption of starch is one of the most common reasons for bacteria build-up in your mouth. Sticky and sweet foods such as gumdrops and marshmallows are especially harmful to your dental health as they remain intact on your teeth for a long time and lead to a faster buildup of plaque.  Other reasons for tooth decay include:

  • Not brushing or flossing your teeth on a regular basis

  • Procrastinating your dental appointments

  • Excessive smoking and consumption of alcohol

  • Not using an antibacterial mouthwash

Symptoms of Tooth Decay

Common symptoms that indicate it’s time to visit an Emergency Dentist in Edmonton include:

  • Bad breath

Bad breath not only makes people around you uncomfortable but can also be a sign of tooth decay.  Although bad breath can be caused by factors other than build-up of plaque, lack of proper oral hygiene and excessive intake of sugar are primary reasons that trigger bad breath.

  • Brown black or white spots on your teeth

This is an evident sign of tooth decay which should not be ignored. Development of black or brown spots on your teeth is a sign of tartar buildup and cavities and should be conferred with a dentist at the earliest.

  • Toothache

Tooth decay erodes the enamel of your teeth leading to the formation of cavities. These cavities lead to the inflammation of the inner nerves of your teeth causing you sharp and constant pain.

Other common signs of tooth decay include:

  • Tooth sensitivity

  • Swelling of your gums

  • Pain when you eat something

Steps to Prevent Tooth Decay

Here are a few preliminary steps that help you prevent tooth decay:

  • Brush your teeth twice a day, in the morning and at night before going to bed

  • Floss once a day

  • Eat a healthy, balanced and nutritious diet

  • Visit your dentist for regular cleaning and checkup once a month

  • Avoid eating too many sugary and sticky foods

  • Clean your tongue twice a day

Good oral health is vital to living a normal and healthy lifestyle. If you have been experiencing any of these signs of decay, contact our representatives to refer an emergency dental in Edmonton.

Posted in Dental Emergencies and tagged ,