Oral disease isn't just some obscure problem. According to the World Health Organization, 3.5 billion people have it in one form or another. That's nearly half the population of this planet. You can prevent yourself from being part of that statistic by taking good care of your mouth and paying attention to signs that you need to go to a dental office. Here are three of them.

1. You Have Bloody Gums

If you have bloody gums after brushing and flossing, it could indicate a problem. This could be seen as normal if you haven't been as diligent with brushing and flossing as you'd like. The blood should go away after a day or two of regular brushing, since it could be gingivitis, which is a reversible form of gum disease. If it continues, however, then that's a sign that the gum disease has progressed. You should go to your local dental office to have them take a closer look.

2. Your Gums Are Receding

People's gums recede as they get older; it's just part of the aging process. It can also indicate gum disease, though. Whatever the cause, if the gums recede too far, they can expose the roots of your teeth, which will lead to pain and discomfort. A dentist can stop or even reverse the process if caught early.

3. You Have Dry Mouth

This can be dangerous for your oral health. Saliva is very important because it washes bacteria away. If you have a dry mouth, then the bacteria can grow and cause gum disease and tooth loss. It can also signal other illnesses. Talk with your dentist to figure out how to remedy the issue.

Other signs include loose or shifting teeth, bumps or sores in your mouth, and a toothache. Don't ignore any of these signs or you might be paying for expensive dental work. Also, be sure to schedule regular appointments to avoid major problems. Biannual dental cleanings are often when problems are found, but the key is catching them early. You'll avoid a lot of pain in both your mouth and your wallet with early intervention. Are you looking for a dental office in your area? We have highly skilled staff that can do everything from dental cleanings to dental implants to cosmetic dentistry. Contact Complete Dental Care Group PLLC today to make an appointment.