Many people know that seeing a dental specialist two times a year for routine cleanings and checkups is essential. These biannual dental appointments allow your dentist to keep your smile shiny while catching, treating, and preventing dental problems early. Various dental problems are more effectively treated when diagnosed timely and when your dental specialist is familiar with your health history. Because of this, visiting your dentist is crucial. However, what are some other signs it’s best to schedule a dental appointment?
Continue reading to discover the six most common reasons why you should reach out to your dentist.
1. Toothache or swelling
If you've ever had a toothache, you know how painful it can be. Acute tooth pains or persistent toothaches are often symptoms of a serious disease and usually get worse if untreated. If you notice any swelling in your cheeks or around the painful area, it's probably an indication of a root infection that has to be treated by your dentist. An antibiotic may be prescribed to treat the infection first. This usually helps relieve some of the pain. However, to avoid additional infection and discomfort, a comprehensive treatment of the diseased and dying root is required.
2. Sore or inflamed gums
If you aren’t currently receiving treatment from your dentist, your inflamed, painful, or red gums most likely indicate gum disease. Mild forms of gum disease can be treated and reversed if you practice good dental hygiene at home and visit a dental office regularly. However, advanced gum disease needs additional dental care. Infection-causing bacteria and plaque can accumulate below your gums, causing you to require in-office deep cleaning and scaling treatments to preserve your dental health.
3. Oral injury
Whether or not it feels like a dental emergency, you should see your dentist if you've suffered any type of oral injury or trauma. Trauma to the teeth can sometimes result in root damage. Hence, it's crucial to see your dentist so they can assess the affected area.
4. White spots on your teeth or gums
One of the most common decay indicators is white spots on your teeth. If you find a spot, consult your dentist. Cavities can be avoided if caught early. White spots on your gum line can signal severe gum disease. If you have an infection in the root of one of your teeth, you may not be experiencing pain right now. However, you may notice a white "pimple" on your gum line. Avoid popping or scraping it. Instead, make an appointment with your dentist ASAP.
5. Canker sores
Canker sores are small ulcers that can form on your gum line, inside surfaces of your lips and cheeks, tongue, and roof of the mouth. Some patients may only develop one or two throughout their lives, usually as a result of an irritant or due to biting their lip or cheek accidentally. The majority of canker sores heal within a week, especially if the area around the sore is kept clean.
In severe cases, your canker sores may not heal or recur frequently. This can result from a variety of things, including stress, food allergies, hormone fluctuations, or immune system problems. See your dentist right away if you have canker sores that aren't healing after a week or are "spreading."
6. Sensitivity to hot and cold
Some patients' teeth are inherently more sensitive. Sensitive toothpaste is commonly used to help manage this problem. However, excessive sensitivity to hot and cold (especially if it occurs suddenly or is unusual for you) typically indicates a more serious problem. If you're having this kind of sensitivity, book an appointment with your dentist.