We’re all trying to save money these days. I get it. But when it comes to your health, you should never try to go cheap.
Braving the dreaded dentist chair is a part of life. Whether you like it or not, you’re going to need to visit the dentist. But some people try to put off dental checkups or skip them altogether.
Not everyone sees the value in visiting the dentist regularly. Are you someone who thinks preventive dental visits are a waste of time? If so, your dentist might soon have other ideas.
Let us guide you through some of the few important signs you need to visit the dentist immediately. Don’t ignore these signs; it may be too late to reverse the damage.
1. Loose, Chipped, or Cracked Teeth
The most common cause of a tooth becoming loose, chipped, or cracked, is due to trauma. This can be from an accident, a fall, or even gnawing on hard objects. Treatment depends on the severity of the damage.
For a small chip, your dentist may just smooth it out. For a bigger crack, you may need a crown or veneer. And if the damage is severe, you may need to have the tooth extracted.
It’s important to see a dentist right away to understand all about chipped tooth causes and treatments. Cracks in your teeth can lead to infections and pain. If the crack is large, it could weaken your tooth and make it more likely to break.
A chipped tooth can also be painful and can make it difficult to eat or drink. If you have a loose tooth, it’s also important to see a dentist. A loose tooth can be a sign of gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss.
2. Inflamed or Bleeding Gums
Your gums are important. They are what keep your teeth in place and protect your roots. When they become inflamed or bleed, it’s a sign that something is wrong.
It could be an infection, gingivitis, or something more serious. Whatever the cause, you need to see a dentist right away. If you don’t, the problem will only get worse.
The inflammation could spread to your jawbone, and the bleeding could become heavier. You could also develop gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss. So don’t wait; see your dentist today.
3. Dry Mouth
If you have a dry mouth, you need to get dental care immediately. A dry mouth can lead to several dental problems, including tooth decay and gum disease. The saliva in your mouth helps to keep your teeth and gums healthy, so without it, you’re at a greater risk for these problems.
In addition, dry mouth can also cause bad breath. So if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, be sure to schedule an appointment with your dentist right away.
4. Bumps and Sores
If you have bumps or sores on your gums, it could be a sign of gingivitis, which is a form of gum disease. Gingivitis is caused by a build-up of plaque on the teeth. If plaque is not removed, it can harden and form tartar, which can irritate the gums and lead to gum disease.
5. Bad Breath
There are many reasons why you might have bad breath, but one of the most common is gum disease. Gum disease is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. Plaque can harden and turn into tartar, which can lead to gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums.
Gingivitis can cause bad breath, gum pain, and bleeding. If gingivitis is not treated, it can progress to periodontitis, a serious infection of the gums and bone. Periodontitis can lead to tooth loss.
6. Tooth Discoloration
Dentists can determine the cause of teeth discoloration and develop a treatment plan to address it. Tooth discoloration can be caused by a number of factors, including food and drink, medications, and tobacco use. Treatment options vary depending on the cause of the discoloration but may include teeth whitening, bonding, or veneers.
Discoloration of teeth is a common problem. The good news is that there are ways to treat it.
Whitening toothpaste and teeth whitening kits are available over the counter and can be effective at removing surface stains. For more difficult stains, you may need to see a dentist for professional teeth whitening treatments. In addition to whitening, other treatments for tooth discoloration include bonding, veneers, and crowns.
To help prevent tooth discoloration, you should brush and floss regularly, avoid tobacco products, and limit your intake of coffee, tea, and wine.
7. Extreme Toothache
Most people experience some type of toothache in their lifetime; however, an extreme toothache can be a sign of a serious dental issue. If you are experiencing an extreme toothache, it is important to visit the dentist immediately. The sooner you receive treatment, the less chance there is for permanent damage to your teeth and gums.
An extreme toothache can be caused by a number of dental issues, such as an abscessed tooth, a cavity, or even gum disease. If not treated promptly, these dental issues can cause serious damage to your oral health. In some cases, an extreme toothache can even be a sign of a more serious medical condition, such as a heart infection.
If you are experiencing an extreme toothache, the best thing to do is to get dental services right away. Only a professional can properly diagnose the cause of your toothache and provide the appropriate treatment. Do not wait to see if the pain goes away on its own, as this could lead to further damage to your teeth and gums.
Taking Time to Visit the Dentist Regularly
It’s important to take care of your teeth and visit the dentist regularly. However, there are times when you may need to see the dentist immediately. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms we have shared, make an appointment with your dentist right away.
You can visit this dentist now if you need immediate dental care. They offer services like emergency care, root canal treatments, and teeth whitening in Lunenburg.
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Amanda Byers is a graduate of Columbia, where she played volleyball and annoyed a lot of professors. Now as Zobuz’s entertainment and Lifestyle Editor, she enjoys writing about delicious BBQ, outrageous style trends and all things Buzz worthy.