3 Signs You Should See Your Dentist Right Away

If you’re like most people, making a dentist appointment may not be at the top of your list of priorities. But while you might think that practicing good dental care at home can keep problems at bay, the reality is that the treatment you receive at your dental office plays a crucial role in maintaining your overall health.

Putting off your annual or bi-annual dentist visit can come with a number of serious consequences. If any of the following signs sound familiar, you’ll want to find a dentist in your area and make an appointment as soon as possible.

1. You’re in Pain: Tooth, gum, and jaw pain should be taken seriously. While you’ll ideally want to prevent pain before it ever occurs, experiencing any kind of dental discomfort should prompt you to call your local dentist right away. Toothaches, teeth sensitivity, and swollen gums rarely get better without treatment. You’ll also want to seek out expert care if you have a mouth sore that won’t go away or if you suspect you might have a cavity. Be sure to contact your dental office so they can assess the problem and provide the care you need.
2. You’ve Lost or Cracked a Tooth: Sudden adult tooth loss is not normal. In many cases, it can indicate the presence of gum disease (which may also be accompanied by swollen or bleeding gums). In fact, adults over the age of 35 lose more teeth to gum disease than they do to cavities. This can be a severe issue that could impact both your smile and your overall health. A cracked or chipped tooth should also prompt you to find a dentist, as any kind of injury should be addressed right away to prevent tooth loss.
3. Your Mouth is Chronically Dry: Dry mouth might not seem like a dental emergency, but it should be addressed by a professional if it’s a constant issue. It’s true that this could be an unwelcome side effect of certain medications. However, chronic dry mouth can also be attributed to other issues (and can exacerbate certain dental problems). Your dentist may be able to recommend mouthwashes and other treatments that can provide you with some relief and prevent other issues from occurring.

Of course, there are countless other reasons to find a dentist near you. Whether you want whiter teeth, you need ongoing dental treatment for your kids, or you’ve put off making an appointment for too long, we’re here to help. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact us today at (207) 767-3211.