Your dentist can give you advice on how to practice good dental hygiene, help you with procedures like teeth whitening or fillings, and even treat your dental pain if necessary. Your teeth and gums can be affected by numerous factors, including your overall health, your daily habits, and even the weather.
So, when is it exactly the time to see a dentist? Not everyone knows. So, there are some tips to help you keep track of your dental health and know when to see a dentist.
1. Bad Breath
Bad breath could be caused by gum disease, as well as other health issues such as diabetes and liver problems. The most common reason for bad breath is the buildup of bacteria in the mouth. This can be treated with regular brushing, flossing, and rinsing with mouthwash.
However, if you follow all these routines and you are still experiencing bad breath, it may be time to see a dentist and explain your problem to them.
2. Bleeding Gums
If you’ve noticed your gums bleeding when you brush or floss, it’s likely that they’re receding. This is typically the first sign of gum disease. If left untreated, your gums could get so bad that they pull away from your teeth and form empty spaces.
These empty spaces can become infected and lead to bone loss. There’s plenty you can do at home to stop gum disease before it gets out of hand. However, a family dentist is always a good option to ensure good dental health.
3. Unexplained Toothache
If you experience any toothache or discomfort, it is important that you make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. A toothache can be from many different things and an early diagnosis can save your teeth.
If the pain continues for more than two days, you can call your nearest healthcare center or family dentist and they’ll schedule you for an appointment as soon as possible.
4. Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding is often caused by anxiety or stress, and can be alleviated by doing relaxation exercises. If you grind your teeth at night, it can lead to headaches and jaw pain, which may indicate the need for professional dental treatment.
Grinding habits are usually set in childhood, so it’s best to consult with a dentist before any major damage occurs.
For children, tooth enamel becomes more vulnerable during growth spurts or when taking medication that can cause dry mouth; as such, parents should keep an eye on their child’s brushing habits and consult with a pediatric dentist if they’re not sure how long their child should brush for.
5. Sensitivity to Hot or Cold Foods
If you’re noticing sensitivity to hot or cold drinks, have sensitive teeth, or are noticing changes in your gums, it might be time to see your dentist. Sensitivity is not uncommon and can be caused by many things such as illness, tooth decay, gum disease, and more. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms it’s best to see your dentist sooner rather than later.