When it comes to oral health, the sooner you identify a problem, the easier it is to treat. Conversely, if you postpone your visit to the dentist, you risk more damage to your teeth, which then requires more expensive treatment. As soon as you notice that something is wrong, you should call your dentist and schedule a dental exam. This way you can prevent oral health problems or treat them in their early stages, with minimal discomfort.
Here are five signs you should schedule a dental appointment as soon as possible.
- Toothache
Persistent toothache is often a symptom of a serious dental problem. Many people just wait at home for the pain to subside, but this is not necessarily a good idea. If there’s something wrong with the tooth, the pain will get worse. Tooth pain or swelling can be a sign of an infection in the root. A dental exam will reveal whether you need an antibiotic for the infection and treatment for the infected root. By postponing your visit to the dentist, you may allow the infection to spread.
- Sensitive Teeth
Many people experience sensitive teeth, without this being a sign of an underlying oral health issue. However, if it lasts for more than a day or it’s something you experience often, you need a dental exam urgently. Recurrent tooth sensitivity can result in gum disease, worn tooth enamel, or tooth decay, so it’s important to get a dentist’s opinion as soon as possible. Some clinics like Smilovits DDS regularly offer free dental exams to new patients, so there’s no reason not to call for an appointment.
- Bad Breath
Experiencing bad breath from time to time is not a reason to get concerned. But if this happens regularly and it continues despite brushing and flossing, you need to visit a dentist and find the cause, because it can be a serious health problem. Bad breath can be a symptom of advanced tooth decay, gum disease, or a medical condition such as gastric reflux or diabetes.
- Canker Sores
Canker sores most often appear when you accidentally bite your lip or cheek or eat something that irritates the roof of your mouth. These types of canker sores usually heal in a matter of days. However, if you notice a canker sore on your gums, tongue, or inside of the cheeks that don’t seem to go away, it’s best to consult your dentist. Some patients get severe or recurrent canker sores that need adequate treatment.
- Sore or inflamed gums
Sore or swollen gums are often a sign of gum disease. Acting immediately is crucial since mild forms of gum disease are reversible with proper treatment and care. In case of a severe form, you’ll need extensive treatment and a professional cleaning to make sure bacteria and plaque don’t build below the gumline. Left untreated, gum disease can result in tooth loss. So, if your gums are painful, sensitive, swollen, or/and often bleed, don’t wait another minute before scheduling a dentist appointment.
If you experience any of the problems above, get a dental checkup to avoid serious complications. Remember that some dental diseases don’t have obvious symptoms, so you should see your dentist at least once every six months if you want to maintain good oral health.