Other than the routine semiannual checkups recommended by most dentists, you might have other reasons you need to visit the dentist. Even if you don’t have a broken tooth or another such emergency, you may need an extra dental appointment. Plus, dental visits may actually save you time and money in the long run.
7 Signs You Should See A Dentist
- Toothaches
- Receding Or Bleeding Gums
- Chronic Dry Mouth
- Perpetually Bad Breath
- Unusual Bumps & Sores
- Sensitive Teeth
- Loose Teeth
1. A Persistent Toothache
Many people choose to use home remedies instead of visiting the dentist when they are experiencing a toothache. However, you shouldn’t wait until the pain becomes unbearable to seek help. Even mild toothaches can be an indication of cavities, damaged fillings or crowns, hairline fractures, and abscesses—all of which need to be dealt with as soon as possible to prevent infections and tooth loss.
2. Receding Or Bleeding Gums
It is not normal for your gums to bleed when you floss your teeth. Unless you accidentally flossed too hard and cut your gums, bleeding is a sign of gingivitis or periodontitis (gum disease). A dentist can help halt the progression of these issues before they cause serious damage throughout your mouth.
3. Constant Dry Mouth
Having a dry mouth is not just uncomfortable, but it also inhibits the remineralization of enamel, which increases your chances of getting cavities. While it could just be a sign that you’re dehydrated, dry mouth can also be caused by medications, oral thrush, or even serious health conditions like diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and HIV. A dentist can help narrow down the list of potential causes and prescribe special types of toothpaste and mouthwash to increase saliva production and protect your teeth.
4. Chronic Bad Breath
If your breath is usually less-than-fresh despite your nearly-flawless brushing and flossing routine, you may want to consider seeing a dentist. Besides being a source of embarrassment, chronic bad breath can be a sign of underlying health issues, such as gum disease, cavities, dry mouth, tonsil stones, and gastrointestinal issues.
5 . Unusual Bumps & Sores
Although nearly everyone has had the unfortunate and agonizing experience of canker sores, these should clear up on their own within a week or so. If you’ve noticed a sore that does not seem to get better even after several days, consider getting it checked out. Also, if you have any bumps, lumps, or growths on your gums, this is a potential indication of an infection or abscess.
6. Teeth Increasingly Sensitivity To Hot & Cold
If your teeth are extremely sensitive to temperature to the extent that it’s painful to drink coffee or eat ice cream even though you don’t have any cavities, you should probably talk to a dentist. Tooth sensitivity is often caused by having naturally thin enamel or receding gums, which puts you at a higher risk of developing cavities and other problems in the future. Your dentist can help identify the cause of your sensitivity and may recommend a sealant, prescription toothpaste, or fluoride treatment.
7. Loose Or Shifting Teeth
If your teeth ever wiggle or shift around in your mouth, you should schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. Adult teeth are never supposed to be loose—if they are, it is likely due to bone loss, severe gum disease, advanced tooth decay, ill-fitting braces, or blunt force trauma to the face. In any case, it is important to get a loose tooth checked out as soon as possible to prevent further damage or loss of the tooth.
Dental Visits Can Save Time & Money In The Future
Many people believe that avoiding the dentist will save them money. Why spend time and money on a dentist if your mouth isn’t hurting? However, dental visits can save you from much more extensive and expensive procedures in the future.
Gentle Dental Care In Las Vegas
At Nevada Dentistry & Braces, our attentive clinicians provide preventative and curative treatments for a wide range of oral health issues. Schedule an appointment today for an examination
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