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It’s common for people to put off seeing a dentist until an issue arises. It’s recommended to see a dentist for an exam and cleaning twice a year, as checkups uncover problems early when they can be easily treated. Still, people procrastinate going to the dentist for many reasons.
Putting off going to the dentist will likely lead to an emergency dental appointment. Bacteria builds up and can cause painful infections and tooth decay. Signs will show up that you must see a dentist. Below are seven signs of dental issues to watch out for:
1. Tooth Pain
Tooth pain suddenly strikes. While it feels sudden, it’s likely an infection lurking in your mouth for years. Tooth damage can also cause pain. Sometimes, a tooth can break or chip while you are eating and you may not even notice until there is sensitivity or pain.
2. Swelling
Swelling is a sure sign you need to see a dentist. Swelling can happen in your jaw or gums if there is an infection. It can be incredibly painful. A cold compress and over-the-counter medications help, but you will need to go to the dentist to get antibiotics or find out why you have swelling.
3. Bleeding Gums
You might see blood on your toothbrush or dental floss. That means you have gingivitis, the beginning stage of gum disease. This is not something you should procrastinate. Untreated gum disease only gets worse, and periodontitis can cause you to lose teeth.
“Bleeding gums is an indication that you need to see your dentist. Gingivitis is treatable, and the earlier you are able to schedule a dental appointment, the more likely you are to lessen the impact of it.”
4. Sores
Single sores in the mouth aren’t all that uncommon. Sores can arise for many different causes, from too much salt or spice in your diet to a sign of an illness to the result of an infection.
A dentist can prescribe pain-relief medication for the sores but can also establish why you have them to figure out a course of treatment.
5. Loose or Shifting Teeth
Anyone experiencing loose or shifting teeth should see a dentist immediately, as this symptom generally precedes tooth loss. Gum disease or an infection of the tooth root can cause loose and shifting teeth. Prepare for a little bruising; loose teeth could be a sign of tooth decay, and you need to have a dentist X-ray to discover the source and remedy.
6. Dry Mouth
Dry mouth can occur for several reasons and may be mild or serious. It is found among many with diabetes, as well as sleep apnea patients. It can also occur in mouth breathers, which can happen with allergy or sinus problems.
That can happen for more serious things as well, such as heart disease, which leads to snoring. Dry mouth can result in more plaque and tartar because it leads to less saliva. Saliva plays a critical role in decreasing plaque and tartar; it washes away food debris and bacteria, hence less plaque and tartar.
7. White or Dark Spots on Teeth
White or dark spots on teeth can be the beginning of a cavity. You’re only in stage I, though a dental check-up at the earliest is advisable because cavities in stage I can be reversed with a fluoride treatment. When the spot becomes a second-stage cavity, it cannot be reversed, but it can be filled.
People need to be aware of changes to their oral health so that they know if and when to see a dentist urgently. Having an awareness of your own body and understanding the signs of more severe issues will be significant to your oral health.
Your dentists are here to help you! We also have emergency dentistry that can assist with pain or issues that arise. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and want to schedule an appointment, please reach out today.
