### Importance of Treating Tooth Pain and Gum Swelling Untreated tooth pain or gum swelling can lead to more serious health issues. Regular dental care, such as brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist twice a year, can prevent severe dental conditions. Ignoring tooth pain or gum swelling can result in tooth loss and is linked to higher risks of heart disease. Even without symptoms, regular dental visits are crucial for maintaining oral health. Mouth ulcers or sores can indicate various health conditions, including diabetes and oral cancer. Nonhealing mouth wounds may suggest diabetes, as people with diabetes heal slower. If a mouth wound persists for over a week, see both your dentist and primary care doctor. Spots or sores in the mouth could also signal oral cancer, appearing as white (leukoplakia) or red lesions (erythroplakia). Bleeding gums after brushing can be alarming. Healthy gums shouldn't bleed unless brushed too hard. Gums hold teeth in place and protect tooth roots, nerves, and blood vessels. Bleeding or swollen gums may indicate gum disease, affecting half of adults over 30. Chronic bad breath might be a sign of cavities or gum disease. Increased sensitivity after dental procedures is normal, but sudden sensitivity could mean a dental abscess, cavity, or enamel thinning. A dental abscess, a bacterial infection, can cause severe toothache, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. If untreated, it can spread and become life-threatening. Pain is a sign of poor oral health. Even if it subsides, it will likely return. Regular dental check-ups are essential to address these issues.