Brushing, flossing and yearly dentist appointments are all key parts of keeping your smile shining bright. And while regular dental visits can help find health problems, there are certain warning signs that can help you catch concerns at home. Here are nine common oral symptoms that you should tell your dentist about right away. 

1. Bleeding while brushing or flossing. If your gums bleed while brushing or flossing, it might mean you have plaque buildup. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. Regular dental cleanings will help keep your gums healthy.
    
2. Dry mouth. Breathing through your mouth, certain medications and dehydration can all cause dry mouth. Remember to drink enough water every day. And speak to your provider if you notice your mouth is dry often.
    
3. Discoloration. If your teeth look yellow or brown, it could be from coffee or tea, tobacco or certain medications. But it can also mean something more serious like tooth decay. A dentist can check your teeth to find out the cause.
    
4. Loose or chipped teeth. This can happen naturally. But it can also be an early sign of tooth decay or gum disease. When the gums are infected, they can get soft and make your teeth loose. If you notice this sign, make an appointment with your dentist.

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5. Red or swollen gums. Puffy or red gums could be a sign of gingivitis. This condition happens when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria on your teeth, builds up under the gums and makes them sore.* If your mouth is red or swollen often, check in with your dental provider.
 

6. Pain or sensitivity to hot or cold foods. Do certain foods cause extra pain in your mouth? Brushing too hard or using certain toothbrushes can wear down the enamel. This is the hard outer layer of your teeth. And it can lead to pain or sensitivity. Talk to your provider about how to brush correctly and effectively.

Brush up on your dental benefits
You're covered for oral exams, cleanings and X-rays. To learn more about your comprehensive dental benefits, visit your secure member website at health portal AllinaHealthAetnaMedicare.com/LG. Not registered yet? Visit AllinaHealthAetnaMedicare.com/RG to start.

7. White patches on tongue. Several conditions could cause these patches. It could be a fungus called oral thrush, ulcers called canker sores or even spots called leukoplakia. Leukoplakia is a condition that causes white spots that can increase the risk of mouth cancer.* If you notice white patches that stick around for a week or more, check in with your dental provider.
 

8. Mouth sores that don’t heal. Mouth sores could be canker sores or cold sores. These normally heal on their own within a few days. If they don’t go away, it’s a good idea to see a dentist.

9. Jaw pain or clicking. Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) (a condition affecting the movement of the jaw), teeth grinding and arthritis are all causes of jaw pain. They can also cause clicking, popping or grinding noises.* If the pain gets worse, make a dental appointment right away.


^*FOR GINGIVITIS: Mayo Clinic. Gingivitis - Symptoms and causes. Accessed May 14, 2025.

^*FOR LEUKOPLAKIA: Mayo Clinic. Leukoplakia. February 15, 2024.  Accessed May 14, 2025.  

^*FOR TMJ: Cleveland Clinic. Jaw Pain. Accessed May 14, 2025. 

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