Our teeth are the first things that most people notice, which is why a great smile is a useful attribute. Celebrities know this and most of them spend a fortune trying to maintain their megawatt smiles. For the rest of us, cosmetic dentistry is much too expensive, but if you look after your teeth, you shouldn’t need to spend money on flashy veneers and tooth implants.

It is sensible to have a good tooth care routine and visit the dentist twice a year for a checkup. Hopefully, you won’t need to make an appointment with an oral surgeon NY, but make sure you stay on the ball, just in case. Here are five warning signs you may have problems with your teeth.

1. Bleeding Gums

Bleeding gums are never a good sign. If your gums are inflamed, you will probably notice blood in the sink when you brush your teeth: this is caused by a buildup of mouth plaque around your teeth and gums. Plaque irritates the gums and causes them to become inflamed. If left untreated, plaque turns to tartar, which needs to be scraped off by a dentist.

2. Bad Breath

Bad breath is a major symptom of tooth decay. Bacteria build up in the mouth and inflammation sets in. Eventually, teeth start to decay and infections run rampant. Bad breath is usually the result of infection in the mouth, so it needs to be addressed as quickly as possible. Untreated oral infections cause painful abscesses, which is no joke.

3. Loose Teeth

Abscesses in teeth that are not treated usually lead to damaged roots, and if the root of a tooth is irreparably damaged, the tooth will fall out. Loose teeth are usually a sign of major oral problems. Regular dental health checks will detect tooth and gum problems before they reach such a severe stage.

4. Painful Teeth

Painful teeth when eating and drinking, particularly hot and cold things, is a good indication you have tooth decay. Sometimes the pain is caused by a breakdown of tooth enamel, which can be caused by too many acidic foods and drinks, but either way, it is not a sign you can afford to ignore. Toothpaste for sensitive teeth might help in the short-term, but in the long-term, mention it to your dentist when you next schedule an appointment.

5. Persistent Sores or Ulcers

Mouth ulcers and sores are very common. They are often a sign of a low immune system, but in many cases, the cause is as simple as accidentally biting your cheek or tongue. However, if you have any mouth ulcers or sores that don’t clear up within a couple of weeks, have it checked out by a dentist, as this can be a symptom of oral cancer.

The best way to avoid dental problems is to eat a healthy diet, brush your teeth regularly, and make regular trips to the dentist. People with crooked teeth are at higher risk of tooth decay and gum disease, so if this applies to you, be even more fastidious with your oral care routine.