Your dentist and their team can do much more than just cleaning teeth and performing whitening treatments. If you are in pain or discomfort you will visit a dentist but sometimes the issue lies within. You need special care and attention when you notice cavities or white spots on teeth but there is much more to understand.
This guide will help you know when you should visit the dentist immediately. The 10 signs that indicate immediate attention by dental experts are:
Pain And Swelling
Pain and swelling in teeth can be caused once in a lifetime. If the pain and swelling continuously increase and you are not getting relief from any painkiller then you need to visit the dentist as soon as possible.
Continuous pain is not normal and you don’t have to wait to let it get better on its own because it may become more painful. Even if you get relief at some point you must get a check-up because there can be underlying issues like gum disease or tooth decay.
Gum Problems
Sometimes your gums need equal care just as much as your teeth. Make an appointment if you notice that gums are puffy, inflamed, swollen, or beginning to recede. If the gums are turning blush-red rather than normal pink and have a pus or an odor, you need to contact the dental expert.
White Spots On Teeth
White spots on teeth can be formed at an early stage of tooth decay and if caught soon, it is possible to deal with the decay process effectively before a cavity completely forms.
Issue With Dental Work
If you previously had any dental work done or facing issues with the one then your dentist needs to check the dental work. Dental works including fillings, dental implants, dental crowns or other dental work require time-to-time checkups and upcoming appointments can detect the issue early.
Your dental expert will detect the dental works and will make adjustments according to the requirements. They may fix loose, crooked, or broken teeth.
Changes Of Colour Or Texture In Mouth
If you notice anything abnormal like red patches or continuous white spots in your mouth you need to report it to a dental expert. If your mouth is showing signs in different forms like persistent dryness, change in color, or texture then it is time to book an appointment with your dentist.
Sensitivity To Hot or Cold Foods or Drinks
Sensitivity can be common at some point but if it increases with time then the reason may be tooth decay moving through the enamel to the center of the tooth and causing sensitivity to certain foods. Sensitivity could be an early sign of different problems such as teeth grinding or a filling that needs to be fixed.
Bad Breath
If your proper oral hygiene including brushing twice a day and flossing once, is not improving your bad breath then a bigger issue may be hiding. Your dentist can detect the underlying problem and make a treatment plan accordingly. They may suggest some lifestyle changes including quitting smoking, alcohol, or dietary improvements.
Difficulty in Chewing or Swallowing
It is not a normal issue and you must ensure sticking to soft foods and avoid sugary drinks until you visit a dentist for a check-up. By this, you can stay away from further complications and related risks.
Jaw Problems
An uneven bite, popping while chewing, or pain when you close your mouth or move your jaw can be more than just annoying. It could be a sign of a bigger issue regarding teeth or gums. It can become more serious if you take it lightly and avoid dental visits. Your dental expert can help and recommend an orthodontist for better treatment.
Lingering Sores
Mouth sores can happen from biting your tongue or cheeks to eating a fruit that does not agree with you. But if these sores last more than a week or longer, it is time to get an expert opinion. Cold sores, leukoplakia, canker sores, and candidiasis are some possible signs of bigger issues.
There can be an underlying virus or infection that only an expert eye can catch so do not make delays and get it done with expert help.
Conclusion
Oral health is an important part of our life and the body, sometimes we just underestimate oral issues until they become more serious. Some severe issues can lead to surgeries or expensive treatments. It is necessary to take care of them at an early stage to avoid waste of time and money.
Visit a dental clinic to get yearly check-ups done. It is not like you need to visit more frequently, once or twice a year is enough for your dental expert to keep a keen eye on your oral health.
