15 Signs You Should See a Dentist
Regular dental visits are important because they can help spot oral health problems early on when treatment is likely to be simpler and more affordable. They also help prevent many oral problems from developing in the first place. Visiting your dentist regularly is also important because some diseases or medical conditions have symptoms that can appear in the mouth.
Here are 15 signs you should see a dentist:
- Your teeth are sensitive to hot or cold
- Your gums are puffy and/or they bleed when you brush or floss
- You have fillings, crowns, dental implants, dentures, etc.
- You don’t like the way your smile or teeth look
- You have persistent bad breath or bad taste in your mouth
- You are pregnant
- You have pain or swelling in your mouth, face or neck
- You have difficulty chewing or swallowing
- You have a family history of gum disease or tooth decay
- You have a medical condition such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, eating disorders, or are HIV positive
- Your mouth is often dry
- You smoke or use other tobacco products
- You are undergoing medical treatment such as radiation, chemotherapy or hormone replacement therapy
- Your jaw sometimes pops or is painful when opening and closing, chewing or when you first wake up; you have an uneven bite
- You have a spot or sore that doesn’t look or feel right in your mouth and it isn’t going away
Even if you don’t have any symptoms, you can still have oral health problems that only a dentist can diagnose. Regular dental visits will also help prevent problems from developing. Keeping your mouth healthy is an essential piece of your overall health. It’s also important to keep your dentist informed of any changes in your overall health since many medical conditions can affect your oral health too.
Here are some tips to help you take care of your smile:
Healthy Habits. Brushing twice a day for two minutes is essential for everyone. It is the best way to fight tooth decay and gum disease.
Build a Relationship. Regular care is an important part of any health plan and dental health is no exception. When you are seen regularly, your dentist is in a good position to catch oral problems early. For example, catching gum disease when it is still reversible, or finding a cavity while it is small and more easily treated.
Maintain. Keeping your mouth healthy is an essential piece of your overall health. It is also important to keep your dentist informed of any changes in your overall health.
Talk About It. Your dentist can help determine what the best treatment plan is for you. If you have questions about your oral health or certain dental procedures, start a conversation. Don’t be afraid to ask for details or to have procedures explained step-by-step.
Leave a reply →
