BECAUSE PREVENTION IS such a major part of general dentistry, it’s critical to visit your Chula Vista dentist for regular checkups. In most cases, two regular dental cleanings a year will be all you need, but not always. So what are the signs that you shouldn’t wait until your next scheduled appointment to come back to your dentist? For this blog post, we’ve listed the top seven.
1. Aches of Any Kind
If you’re experiencing tooth pain, that could mean a cavity has gotten to the point where the dental pulp is getting infected. Don’t tough it out thinking it’ll just go away on its own. Other types of pain you should bring to the dentist are an aching jaw and frequent headaches. These are often connected to oral health issues such as bruxism (teeth-grinding), and the dentist can help!
2. Mouth Sores and Bleeding Gums
Mouth sores usually go away on their own, but they can also be a sign of infection or disease, so it’s important to get those looked at when they appear. If you notice that you’re bleeding after brushing or flossing, it’s time to come see the dentist, particularly if you’re already using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Bleeding gums are one of the first symptoms of gum disease, so don’t ignore the signs!
3. Previous Dental Work
If you’ve had dental work done in the past and there’s a problem with it now, don’t wait until a regular appointment to get that fixed, because it will likely get worse. A cracked or chipped crown needs to be repaired quickly so that infection doesn’t set in. Worn-out fillings need to be replaced to prevent bacteria from thriving in the gaps between the tooth and the filling.
4. Serious Medical Concerns
Serious conditions such as diabetes, eating disorders, and gum disease affect our oral health more than we realize, and sometimes the treatments have negative impacts too. Many medications cause dry mouth, which can seriously jeopardize oral health. That’s why if you are diagnosed with a chronic disease and/or have new medications prescribed to you, Nordahl Dental needs to know about it.
5. Bad Breath
Few things are as mortifying as being in a social situation and realizing you have bad breath, but did you know that bad breath is sometimes a symptom of gum disease or other health problems? If you find yourself having an unusually hard time keeping your breath minty fresh, it’s a good idea to visit the dentist so we can discover the underlying cause.
6. Visible Changes in Your Mouth
If you notice any unusual changes in the appearance of your mouth, such as persistent sores, lumps, white or red patches, or unusual growths, it’s essential to schedule a dental appointment for a thorough examination. While some changes may be harmless, others could be indicative of more serious conditions, including oral cancer.
Early detection and diagnosis play a crucial role in successful treatment outcomes. Your Chula Vista dentist can assess the changes, perform necessary tests or biopsies, and provide appropriate recommendations based on their findings. Regular oral cancer screenings during dental check-ups can also help identify potential issues before they progress.
7. Loose or Wobbly Adult Teeth
Adult teeth should remain stable and securely anchored in their sockets. If you notice that your teeth feel loose, shift position, or have become wobbly, it’s a cause for concern and requires immediate attention from the dentist. Loose teeth can be a sign of various dental issues, including advanced gum disease (periodontitis) or trauma. Ignoring this symptom could lead to tooth loss if left untreated.
The dentist will examine the affected teeth, evaluate the health of surrounding tissues, and recommend appropriate treatment to address the underlying cause. Early intervention can often prevent further damage and help you maintain a healthy and functional smile.
Keep Up Your Regular Visits!
While we hope you come to see your dentist in Chula Vista right away if you notice any of these signs, we want to reemphasize the importance of scheduling regular appointments. Most dental health problems appear gradually, and an appointment every six months is enough to catch these problems before they become serious. Make sure to get directions before you head our way.