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Signs You Need to Visit the Dentist Sooner Than You Think

Signs You Need to Visit the Dentist

By Expert DentistPublished about a year ago 4 min read

As you can see, oral health is one of those areas that people do not pay sufficient regard to. Such misconceptions are common, and, therefore, many overlook early signs of dental problems because they do not consider them important. But ignoring such symptoms might mean much deeper issues in the future would be encountered. To assist you in avoiding this, here are some important messages to tell you when you need to see the dentist than you expect.

1. Persistent Bad Breath (Halitosis)

While it is common to experience bad breath every once in a while, if you are of the view you have your breath issues quite often, there could be a dental problem. Halitosis is usually an indicator of gingivitis, caries, or other type of oral pathology. Even though using mouthwash will cover up the problem, only a dentist can properly identify the root cause.

2. Bleeding Gums

Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing are not something you give the blind eye to. This is so since bleeding gums are primarily a symptom of gingivitis or some other form of periodontal disease. If ignored, the conditions may cause the gums to shrink, result in losing the teeth, or develop other diseases. Gum disease can develop into different stages, but it can be stopped when your dentist acts quickly.

3. Tooth Sensitivity

Sensitivity of the teeth to hot, cold or sweet foods and beverages may indicate one of the many forms of tooth decay or even an infection. Sensitivity mostly begins mildly but can progress by the day. Your dentist can tell you why this is the case and or offer solutions such as fluoride treatments or sealants for your teeth.

4. Toothache or Pain

Pain is among the more apparent indication that you require the services of a dentist. Cavities, abscesses, and even a cracked tooth all manifest themselves through toothaches. Snode pain is the body’s indication that something is wrong and that a dentist should take action to prevent worsening or an infection.

5. Changes in Tooth Color or Texture

If you observe that your teeth change color or feel that some of their parts are rough to the tongue, cavity formation or enamel wear may be the reason. Staining may also be a sign of cavities, or the presence of plaque on the teeth. If a situation like this is caught early enough you won’t have to go for more complicated things like root canal or crowning.

6. Mouth Sores That Don’t Heal

It is quite usual to have sore or ulcer in your mouth at instance. However, you should visit your dentist if a sore in your mouth lasts for more than two weeks without healing. It often occurs that slow-healing wounds are a result of an early stage of oral cancer or other diseases, which is why consultation is necessary.

7. Dry Mouth

Dry mouth, or xerostomia, can be caused by lack of enough water or by use of some drugs. However, the condition can be dangerous since it leads to tooth decay, gum diseases and even infections. Your dentist will be able to diagnose the cause and advice on the appropriate treatment, which may include using a specific mouth wash or trying to find ways that may help increase saliva flow.

8. Loose or Shifting Teeth

Your teeth should not move around your mouth freely; therefore, if you have any one of them that shifts or becomes loose, then it is a sign that you are likely to have lost some of your bones as well as the diseases which affect the gums and trauma. Hypoplastic teeth are somewhat mobile and can fall out in future if proper care is not taken. Getting to the dentist early can prevent any further damage to your teeth from being done.

9. Jaw Pain or Clicking

You should see your dentist if you experience any discomfort in your jaw or hear a clicking sound when you open or close your mouth. TMJ disorders may cause pain, and reduced ability to chew or swallow as well as other effects. It can be confined or worsened, and early intervention will help to salvage the situation and possibly get relief through the use of mouthguards, dental brace or physical therapy.

10. Swelling or Lumps in the Mouth

Pain in the mouth accompanied by lumps or growth could be due to infection or at worst oral cancer. Such problems can be detected at an early stage when one agrees to be taken for a dental checkup often. Your dentist will look at any changes and may suggest other tests or even treatment depending on the situation.

Why Early Detection is Crucial

These are some signs that may hint at major jaw issues and that you should look for when you are not maintaining consistent dental visits to have a proper oral care. Most oral complications are asymptotic at onset and develop from minor conditions that can be cured at an initial stage. However, if not treated they cause their worst conditions that often demand complicated and costly operations. There is no need to suffer through a toothache or have a costly procedure that could’ve been prevented with regular checkups to your dentist.

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