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June 22, 2023

Dental Health – Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

Maintaining good dental health is crucial for overall well-being and quality of life. It helps prevent tooth decay, gum diseases, and other oral health issues that can cause pain, discomfort, and potential tooth loss. By prioritising dental health through regular oral hygiene practices and seeking professional dental care, we can promote a healthy smile and support our overall health.

Dental problems are one of the most common health conditions in Australia. According to research from the University of Adelaide, more than a third of Australian adults had dental problems, including tooth decay, gingivitis and periodontitis [1]. Additionally, 11-27% of children between the ages of 5-14 have untreated tooth decay [2].

At 24-7MedCare, we provide accessible healthcare services, including virtual consultations, to assist individuals with dental problems manage their situation. Our experienced GPs can offer guidance, diagnosis and treatment options within the convenience of your own home.

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What is Dental Health?

Dental or oral health refers to the condition and care of our teeth, gums, and mouth. Our dental health reflects our overall well-being and ability to speak, eat and drink without discomfort [3]. Good dental health involves practising proper oral hygiene and seeking regular professional dental care.

One of the main aspects of dental health is maintaining a clean and healthy mouth. This involves brushing our teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and using dental floss or interdental brushes to clean between our teeth. These habits help remove food particles, plaque, and bacteria, preventing tooth decay and gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis.

Regular dental check-ups are crucial for maintaining dental health. Healthcare professionals can identify and address dental issues early on, preventing them from worsening and causing more significant problems. While GP’s can offer support and treatment, they can also provide referrals to other specialists.

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Causes of Poor Dental Health

Poor dental health can arise due to various factors affecting our teeth, gums, and oral hygiene. One of the primary causes of poor dental health is improper oral hygiene practices, including:

Ineffective or infrequent brushing procedures can lead to tooth decay and gum disease [4].
Eating or drinking sugary foods which can increase the amount of bacteria in our mouth [5].
Acidic foods and drinks, such as citrus fruits and carbonated beverages, can also erode enamel and contribute to dental problems [5]
Tobacco use can stain teeth, cause bad breath, and increase the risk of gum diseases and oral cancer [6]
Neglecting regular dental check-ups and professional care is another factor that can lead to poor dental health.
Skipping dental appointments may allow problems to worsen, making them more challenging and expensive to treat in the long run.
Genetic factors and underlying medical conditions can also contribute to poor dental health. For example, individuals with naturally weak enamel or crowded teeth may be more prone to dental problems.

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Symptoms and Signs of Poor Dental Health

Recognising the signs and symptoms of poor dental health is crucial for identifying potential issues and seeking timely treatment. It’s important to note that these signs and symptoms are not exclusive to poor dental health and may indicate other underlying health conditions.

Here are some common indicators that something may be amiss with our dental health:

Toothache: Persistent or recurring tooth pain can be a sign of tooth decay, infection, or a dental injury. It may range from mild discomfort to severe pain and should not be ignored.
Gum problems: Symptoms like swollen, red, or tender gums, bleeding while brushing or flossing, and persistent bad breath can indicate gum diseases such as gingivitis or periodontitis.
Tooth sensitivity: Signs of tooth sensitivity occur if you experience pain or discomfort when consuming hot or cold foods and beverages or breathing in cold air. This condition can be caused by tooth enamel erosion, receding gums, or tooth decay.
Bad breath: Persistent bad breath that does not improve even with regular oral hygiene practices may indicate underlying dental issues like gum diseases, cavities, or dry mouth.
Tooth discolouration: Stained or discoloured teeth not responsive to regular brushing may be a sign of tooth decay or enamel erosion. Certain habits like smoking, consuming dark-coloured foods or drinks, or poor oral hygiene can contribute to tooth discolouration.
Loose teeth: Adult teeth should not feel loose or shift position. If you notice changes in the alignment or stability of your teeth, it could indicate gum diseases or other dental problems.
Oral sores and ulcers: Recurring sores or ulcers in the mouth that take a long time to heal can be signs of various oral health issues, including viral or fungal infections, poor nutrition, or immune system disorders.
Jaw pain or clicking: Persistent pain or clicking sounds when opening or closing the jaw could be symptoms of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, affecting oral health and overall well-being.

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Dental Health Treatment

GPs provide primary healthcare and treat a wide range of medical conditions. While they can help with many aspects of our health, including preventive care and management of illnesses, it’s important to note that GPs typically do not provide specialised dental treatments. However, they can offer guidance and initial evaluation for specific dental concerns. Treatments that GPs may offer include:

Basic Oral and Mouth Examinations

GPs can play a role in identifying potential problems and providing general advice. For example, they can perform basic mouth, teeth, and gum examinations during routine check-ups [7]. They may ask questions about oral hygiene habits, diet, and any discomfort or symptoms you may be experiencing.

GPs can offer general recommendations for maintaining good dental health based on their examination. They may advise you to brush your teeth at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss regularly, and follow a balanced diet promoting oral health. They may also discuss the importance of regular dental check-ups and encourage you to see a dentist for professional care.

Referral to a Dental or Specialist

Suppose you have concerns or symptoms related to your dental health. In that case, GPs can provide an initial evaluation and determine if a referral to a dentist or a dental specialist is necessary [8]. It’s worth noting that specialised dental treatments, such as fillings, extractions, braces, or root canals, are typically performed by dentists who have specific training and expertise in oral healthcare.

Medications

GPs can help ease dental-related pain, such as toothaches, by prescribing pain relief medication. They may also prescribe antibiotics if there are signs of infection associated with the dental problem. However, it is essential to note that GPs typically refer patients to dentists who can also prescribe medications.

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Dental Health Complications

Poor dental health can lead to many complications extending beyond the mouth. Ignoring dental problems or neglecting oral hygiene can significantly impact our overall well-being. Here are some common complications that can arise from poor dental health:

Tooth Decay

Tooth decay can occur when we don’t take care of our teeth through proper brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups. Tooth decay is the destruction of the tooth structure caused by the acids produced by bacteria in plaque. If left untreated, tooth decay can lead to cavities, toothaches, and tooth loss.

Gum Diseases

Poor dental hygiene can cause gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gums, causing redness, swelling, and bleeding. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that can lead to gum recession, bone loss, and tooth loss.

Bad Breath

Persistent bad breath, or halitosis, can be embarrassing and indicate underlying dental problems. Poor oral hygiene, gum diseases, and certain medical conditions can contribute to bad breath. Addressing the root cause of bad breath is essential to maintain fresh breath and oral health.

Pain and Discomfort

Dental problems like toothaches, gum infections, or abscesses can cause significant pain and discomfort. These issues can interfere with eating, speaking, and daily activities, impacting our quality of life. Seeking prompt dental care is essential to alleviate pain and resolve the underlying problem.

Systemic Health Effects

Poor dental health is linked to several systemic health issues. For instance, untreated gum diseases have been associated with an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes complications, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Maintaining good dental health may contribute to overall better health.

Emotional and Social Impact

Poor dental health can have emotional and social consequences. Dental problems like tooth loss, decay, or stained teeth can affect self-esteem and confidence, leading to social anxiety and reluctance to smile or engage in social situations. Taking care of our dental health can positively impact our emotional well-being and social interactions.

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Receiving quality care from highly experienced doctors is essential for a prompt diagnosis and receiving the correct medical treatment. With 24-7 MedCare, you can experience telemedicine from the convenience of your own home. Our friendly online doctors will be available 24/7 for a consultation, anytime and anywhere in Australia.

To make a telehealth appointment booking, simply click on the button below.
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