7 Signs That It's Time To See A Dentist

By Author: Monica Quinn
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The condition of your oral cavity is essential to your overall health. Many people ignore warning signs and think that oral issues will go away on their own. However, this is far from the truth. Skipping dental check-ups can have serious consequences, from chronic toothache and tooth loss to systemic issues. In this article, we have gathered seven signs that indicate that you should make an appointment with a dentist as soon as possible.

1. Bleeding gums
Many people consider bleeding gums to be a minor problem, especially when they bleed while brushing their teeth. However, this is one of the first symptoms of gingivitis – an inflammation of the gums that can develop into periodontitis. If you notice blood on your toothbrush or when you eat solid foods, there is no reason to postpone visiting the dental specialist. It is essential to understand that inflammation can affect not only soft tissues, but also the bone that holds the teeth. The sooner you seek help, the better your chances of maintaining your oral hygiene.

2. Bad breath
Halitosis ...
... is the medical term for bad breath. Indeed, it can also be caused by freshly eaten garlic or onions, but if the smell persists and does not go away even after brushing your teeth, it is a warning sign. The causes can be different: tooth decay, tartar, inflammation of the gums, or even stomach problems. Only a dentist can determine the cause of the problem and offer effective treatment.

3. Increased tooth sensitivity
If you experience stabbing pain when eating hot, cold, sweet, or sour foods, this is a clear symptom of increased tooth sensitivity. This sensitivity can be caused by exposed tooth roots, thinning enamel, or cavities. Some people ignore this pain by simply avoiding certain foods, but the problem only gets worse over time. Treatment can be simple and quick if you don't postpone your visit to the doctor.

4. Toothache, even mild and temporary
Even mild but recurring pain in the teeth is a sign that something is wrong with them. Causes can be developing caries, a crack in the tooth enamel, or nerve inflammation. Many people tend to wait until the pain becomes unbearable. Unfortunately, it can be too late for a filling. In this case, the removal of a nerve or tooth may be required. Remember: timely treatment is easier and more cost-effective.

5. Loose teeth or a feeling of mobility
Usually, the teeth should not move. If you notice that a tooth is becoming loose, especially when chewing, this may be a sign of destruction of the tissue that holds the tooth to the gums. Causes include periodontal disease, injury, inflammation, or infection. The sooner you contact a specialist, the
greater the chances of saving the tooth.

6. White or dark spots on your teeth
Changes in the color of your tooth enamel often go unnoticed, especially if they are not accompanied by pain. White spots can be the first sign of demineralization, a process of destruction of tooth enamel. Dark spots are a sign of deep cavities. At this stage, the tooth can still be saved without extensive procedures, but the risk of tooth loss increases the longer you wait to see a dentist.

7. Clicking, pain, or limited jaw opening
If you notice a clicking sound in your jaw when you open your mouth, or if you have pain or difficulty moving your jaw, it could be a sign of a problem with your temporomandibular joint (TMJ). These symptoms are often accompanied by headaches, neck tension, and even earaches. The temporomandibular joint is a complex joint, and its disorders can seriously affect your quality of life. Only a dentist can determine the extent of the problem and recommend the right treatment or physical therapy.

The bottom line
Regular dental check-ups, at least every six months, are key to good dental and gum health. People often only go to the doctor when they have acute pain, thus missing the moment when treatment could be simple, quick, and painless. Modern dentistry offers painless diagnostic and treatment methods, and regular visits enable early detection of problems, thus preventing complications.

Greetings, my name is Monica. I graduated from New York Medical College and work as a nurse in Queens Hospital at the moment. The thing I love the most is morning jogging, because it is a wonderful way to keep myself in tonus. I like to communicate with people who care about their health. I became a vegetarian five years ago. Now my daily menu consists mainly of vegetables, fruits and different cheeses. I am a member of water polo team and I love gardening. I like to see how huge flowers grow out of the tiny petal, it dazzles me because I love spending my time outdoors. My goal is to visit all the USA parks, and then all over the world)