When it comes to your dental health, prevention is usually regarded as the best cure. Despite this knowledge, people neglect their teeth and put off going to see the dental practitioner because they’re busy.
So what are the telltale symptoms you should look out for that highlight you’re overdue for your next check-up? Read on to find out.
Should I go and see the dental practitioner?
It’s generally a good idea to see the dentist twice a year. However, if you’re suffering from the signs below, you’d better make tracks to your local dental practitioner.
Pain
Experiencing toothache, whether tolerable or excruciating, is a sign that you’re overdue for your next dental check-up.
You shouldn’t let the issue heal on its own. Instead, you should seek out medical treatment as soon as possible, because the pain might be a symptom of a more severe problem.
Irritated gums
Gums that occasionally bleed aren’t necessarily a cause for concern, but if they’re always tender, red, and bleed when you brush them, you might be suffering from periodontitis.
Periodontitis can be easily treated early on, but once it progresses the disease can become so detrimental you might experience significant tooth loss.
Jaw Pain
Jaw pain might be pointing to an underlying cavity that’s reached the root, which could result in an abscess if the issue is left untreated.
Don’t ignore these signs, call up your local dental practitioner and get to the source of the issue before it’s too late.
Injury to the mouth
A knocked-out tooth can be classified as a dental emergency that requires urgent care if you want to salvage the pearly white.
Book an appointment with your dental practitioner within the hour of the accident, because the longer you wait, the lower your chances are of saving the affected tooth.
In the meantime, placing the teeth in saliva or milk goes a long way to prevent the roots of the tooth from drying out.
Bad Breath
It’s normal for your breath to smell after eating a particularly garlicky meal. However, if your breath continues to be unpleasant after a thorough cleaning, you might have a problem on your hands.
Halitosis can be a symptom of gum disease or some other medical problem.
Dry Mouth
Do you continue to feel thirsty despite drinking a lot of water? Dry mouth occurs when your mouth is producing insufficient saliva, which can be extremely uncomfortable to live with. Not only that, but if left untreated the condition can lead to infections or tooth decay.
Tooth Sensitivity
Some people have more sensitive teeth than others, which is a situation typically soothed with specialised toothpaste.
However, extreme sensitivity when your teeth are exposed to heat or cold could stem from a more severe issue that may need treatment.
Canker Sores
Canker sores are tiny ulcers or mouth sores that develop on the gums, inside of the lips, tongue, and cheeks.
Most canker sores, although uncomfortable, heal on their own. However, if yours aren’t getting better or are spreading, visit your oral health provider as soon as possible.
