London dentist shares warning signs that require urgent dental attention
As the nation recovers from the indulgences of the festive period, a London dentist has shared some key warning signs to look out for.
Poor oral health is linked to an increased risk of dental disease, as well as chronic health conditions, such as heart disease and complications during pregnancy. People with diabetes are also more at risk of severe dental problems.
Dr Azad Eyrumlu, from the Banning Group, has shared some of the most important indicators of dental issues to encourage people to get checked out early.
One of the most alarming issues dentists face in the wake of the pandemic is a potential surge in cases of advanced oral cancer, which could have been detected earlier through routine appointments and better awareness of symptoms.
Mouth cancer affects around 8,000 people per year in the UK and case numbers have increased by almost 50% in the last decade. Early diagnosis is key, as it improves the chances of successful treatment dramatically.
Symptoms of oral cancer include slow-healing mouth ulcers, difficulty swallowing, a persistent sore throat or hoarseness, lumps and abnormal swelling, unexplained loose teeth and red or white patches in the mouth. The main risk factors include smoking, drinking heavily, exposure to the HPV (human papilloma virus) and a poor diet.
Another significant sign to look out for in the new year is changes to the gums. Bleeding gums, soreness, increased redness and receding gums can all indicate gum disease.
Mild gum disease, known as gingivitis, is relatively straightforward to treat, but there is a risk of severe symptoms developing. Advanced gum disease causes permanent damage to the bone tissue beneath the gums, causing the teeth to come loose.
Dr Eyrumlu urged patients to try to stick to a thorough daily oral hygiene regime, avoid snacking and eating too much sugar and keep up with routine dental appointments.
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