Maintaining good oral health is the key to preserving a beautiful, healthy smile. And while daily brushing and flossing is the way to go, seeking professional dental care is sometimes necessary.
Knowing when to visit the dentist can sometimes be the difference between an easy-to-fix issue and damage beyond repair. At some point, almost everyone has experienced a sudden change inside their mouth, such as persistent toothache, bleeding gums, minor spacing, and other common discomforts. These symptoms can often indicate an underlying problem that, if left untreated, may lead to serious consequences.
Discover when it becomes necessary to book an appointment with your dentist by recognizing these 5 signs and why you should never overlook them.
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#1 Persistent Toothache
While this sign is fairly obvious, it’s a major indicator you need to see a dentist. When tooth pain extends to several hours or days, and over-the-counter medications fail to mitigate the pain, it could be an indication of cavities, an infection, or gum disease.
If the pain worsens when you eat or drink, especially hot or cold items, it could be a sign of a deeper underlying issue like nerve damage. Brushing off toothaches can lead to further dental complications such as abscesses, tooth decay, or severe infections.
#2 Bleeding Gums
Gums shouldn’t bleed easily. So, if you experience bleeding gums after brushing or flossing, remember, it’s not normal! It’s usually a sign of gingivitis (early stage of gum disease, characterized by bleeding, redness, and inflammation of the gums.)
Persistent bleeding, swelling, or redness might indicate an infection or inflammation. These symptoms can lead to tooth loss or damage to the supporting bone structure. However, if you act early and avoid ignoring these signs, treatment is often simple and effective.
#3 Bad Breath
Normally, bad breath can be the result of dry mouth, consuming strong-smelling foods, or smoking. It usually goes away after brushing or using a mouthwash. When it doesn’t, however, it could be a sign of a larger issue.
It’s not always poor oral hygiene or bacteria buildup that causes bad breath. Sometimes, it’s a symptom of gum disease, cavities, or even infections, which are usually accompanied by a bad mouth odor that just won’t go away.
#4 Tooth Sensitivity
Most people experience some level of tooth sensitivity during their lives. Eating sweets and consuming hot or cold items is what usually triggers the pain, and it’s often the result of worn enamel, cavities, or exposed tooth roots. But why shouldn’t it be ignored?
Tooth sensitivity can lead to severe tooth decay or gum disease, risking further damage to the teeth or gums. Additionally, it could indicate early signs of conditions like gum recession or infections, which are easier to manage when caught early.
#5 Sudden Changes Inside Your Mouth
While previous signs can be felt and associated with pain or odor, there are sudden changes that you visibly see inside your mouth that are just as serious. Lumps, discoloration, and sores are all signs that warrant your attention.
It’s important to be aware that if your teeth are shifting, feeling loose, or if you’re noticing any gaps, these could be signs of gum disease or bone loss. Additionally, if you see white or red patches, have ulcers that aren’t healing, or experience jaw pain, it might indicate an infection or, in rare instances, oral cancer. These symptoms definitely deserve your attention ignored.
What Should I Do?
As the saying goes, “Prevention is better than cure.” Make sure you visit the dentist every 6 months for regular dental checkups and cleanings. This allows your dentist to examine your teeth and gums, clean them properly, and spot potential issues early.
Much like most medical conditions, these oral issues are easier to treat when they’re caught at an early stage. If you do, however, experience any of the signs above or anything unfamiliar inside your mouth, don’t sleep on it! Schedule an appointment with your dental professional, and always keep your oral health protected.
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