Regular visits to the dental office are essential for maintaining good oral health. They allow your dentist to check and pick up on any dental issue while it’s in its early stages. However, there are times when you may experience sharp or nagging pain in your tooth. This is when you should visit your dentist right away, even if the pain comes and goes. Pain, regardless of its severity in teeth, should be treated as an emergency as it jeopardizes oral health. Here are other common reasons to see a dentist.
1. Your Gums are Bleeding, and They Appear Red and Inflamed
Gum disease is a common oral condition. If you notice your gums appear swollen and bleeding every time you brush your teeth, book an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. Also known as gingivitis, gum disease is easy to treat in its early stages as it involves removing built-in plaque. If left untreated, it leads to the deterioration of gum tissue and, in critical stages, leads to periodontitis and loss of teeth. According to the Dental Association, 47.2% of adults 30 years and above have some kind of periodontal disease.
2. You Have a Broken, Cracked, or Loose Tooth
Chipping, cracking, or breaking teeth occurs when you have had an accident requiring an emergency trip to the dentist. Whether you fell and knocked your teeth on a rock or you were involved in a car accident, cracked and broken teeth require a visit to your dentist. If ignored, the tooth will become extremely painful and sensitive. It will also allow bacteria to enter, leading to other infections.
3. You Have Persistent Headaches
Many people still don’t know that some headaches could be connected to their dental issues. Persistent headaches in the morning could result from teeth grinding as you sleep. If this is the case, seeing a dentist immediately is essential to fit you with a mouth guard to prevent tooth grinding and damage.
4. You Have Consistent Bad Breath
Bad breath is embarrassing, and many people attempt to avoid going to the dentist. As a result, it can quickly worsen, leading to other oral issues. Infections, gum disease, metabolic disorders, cancer, diabetes, and acid reflux often cause bad breath. Visiting the dentist on time helps save the situation.
Visiting a dental office regularly keeps your oral health in check, but also feel free to visit when you experience the above issues. Contact our team today to help you learn more about how dentists can help manage your oral health.