3 Signs It's Time To Visit Your Dentist
Posted on: 2 August 2021
Aside from regular checkups, many people only see their dentist when they are experiencing significant tooth pain. However, toothaches are far from the only thing your dentist can help with. Some valid reasons to go to the dentist don't cause any pain at all. Here are three signs it's time to visit your dentist.
1. Excessive Bleeding After Brushing
Bleeding after brushing is a characteristic sign of gum inflammation. Gum disease, or periodontitis, is the most common cause of inflamed gums. Periodontitis can occur due to poor dental hygiene, or it may be caused by conditions such as dry mouth that inhibit the body's ability to fight oral bacteria.
Your dentist can assess the health of your gums and determine if you are at risk for gum disease. People with gum disease can benefit greatly from a professional dental cleaning. Professional cleanings eliminate tartar below the gum line that cannot be removed with normal brushing. Dental patients with gum disease often have significant levels of tartar buildup that must be removed to restore healthy gums.
2. Lost Filling or Crown
If you have had any dental work done, you should know the risks of losing a filling or crown. Lost fillings may expose the tooth to oral bacteria that can quickly set up tooth decay. The tooth beneath a crown is weaker after filing than your natural teeth, so there will be a greater risk of damage to the tooth while the crown is missing.
If you were able to locate the lost dental filling or crown, your dentist will likely be able to reattach it after cleaning the affected tooth. Fortunately, many dentists will provide replacement fillings or crowns at a reduced rate if you are unable to locate the original.
3. Loose Permanent Teeth
Permanent teeth can wiggle very slightly because they're held in place by ligaments, but it's easy to recognize when a tooth is too loose. Permanent teeth may become loose due to factors such as gum recession from gum disease, physical trauma, or decay that damages the tooth roots.
A loose permanent tooth may reattach itself as the tissues and ligaments around it heal, but you should never take the risk. If nerves or blood vessels have been severed, it will take immediate action to save the tooth. Your dentist can ensure the nerves and vessels in the tooth are healthy and stabilize the tooth with a splint if necessary.
Dental problems tend to get worse the longer you delay treatment. Don't hesitate to seek help from your dentist for any questions or concerns about your oral health!
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