Maintaining oral health is essential not just for your teeth but for overall well-being. Here are five critical signs that your teeth might not be as healthy as you believe.

Gums shouldn't bleed during normal activities like brushing or flossing. Bleeding might indicate early gingivitis, which is reversible with proper care, or more advanced gum disease, which could lead to severe dental issues.

Chronic bad breath, or halitosis, could signal poor oral hygiene. It might result from not scraping your tongue regularly or could be linked to gum disease, dry mouth, cavities, or even other health issues like sinus problems and digestive tract concerns.

Persistent tooth pain often points toward cavities. Although cavities typically don't hurt until they're significantly large or turned into an infection, noticing pain should prompt a visit to the dentist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Waking up with jaw pain may be a result of clenching and grinding your teeth during sleep. This can cause cracked teeth or even gum recession, necessitating a check-up with a dental professional.

"Taking preventive measures by identifying these signs early can save you a great deal of pain and discomfort."