Oral inflammation could be a sign of an infection or virus and should not be ignored.

More and more research shows the link of oral health to our overall health. In fact, many serious health issues can be linked to problems that affect the mouth. Inflammation of the mouth, for example, is often a sign of an issue that could be affecting other areas of the body. Read on to learn exactly what oral inflammation is and why you must address it as soon as possible…

What is inflammation?

Inflammation is a process in which the body fights off injury and infection. If you experience inflammation, it is often a sign that your body has been affected by an infection or virus. Pain, swelling, redness, a sensation of heat, and limited function in the affected area are some of the most common symptoms of inflammation.

Inflammation can affect all areas of the body. But when it comes to oral inflammation, it can be presented in various ways. You may notice that the soft tissues of your mouth feel tender, swollen, or hot. You might also have difficulty opening and closing your mouth. In some cases, oral inflammation can lead to fever and pain.

Often, oral inflammation is not limited to the mouth. It can seriously impact your overall health. Research suggests that the inflammation associated with the advanced stage of gum disease could contribute to other diseases. Some examples are cardiovascular disease and pneumonia. Certain conditions like diabetes and HIV/AIDS can worsen oral health by lowering the body’s natural resistance to infections.

What causes mouth inflammation?  

There are many factors that can cause inflammation of the mouth. These include canker sores or ulcers in the mouth, nutritional deficiencies, and a compromised immune system. Another source of inflammation can be certain viral and fungal infections. Although rare, an allergic reaction to toothpaste can cause mouth inflammation.

Certain lifestyle habits, such as tobacco use, can also contribute to oral inflammation.

How can it be treated?

If you suspect that you are suffering from oral inflammation, you should consult with your dentist as soon as possible. Your dentist will perform a thorough examination and look for possible causes of the issue, such as mouth sores, injuries, or gum disease. They will discuss your symptoms with you in detail and determine the cause of the issue before recommending a suitable treatment plan. In some cases, medication or a specially formulated mouth rinse may be recommended to treat the inflammation, although this will depend on your particular needs.

When it comes to effectively treating mouth inflammation, early intervention is key. So, if you notice any changes in your mouth or experience any discomfort, be sure to visit your dentist. In fact, you should arrange to see your dentist every six months for a routine check-up so that they can help to keep your oral health on track.

How can we help?

At City Smiles, we understand the important connection between oral health and overall wellness. For this reason, we encourage all of our patients to come in and see us for regular check-ups so that we can help them keep their overall health on track. When you visit us every six months, we can identify and effectively treat any potential problems at an early stage.

If you are concerned about your oral health for any reason, please don’t hesitate to arrange a consultation. We offer a comprehensive range of dental services and always recommend a proactive approach when it comes to your smile.

To find out about the full range of services we provide, please have a look here.

To make an appointment at City Smiles in Melbourne, give us a call at 03 9654 6979 or contact us here.