When was the last time you saw a dentist? While regular check-ups are important, sometimes your mouth gives you signs that you need to see a dentist now.
Ignoring these signs can turn a small, easy-to-fix problem into a major one that’s more painful and expensive to treat. So, how do you know when it’s time to pick up the phone and schedule an appointment?
Whether you live in Lexington, KY or anywhere else, here’s a helpful guide to the top signs you shouldn’t ignore. If any of these sound familiar, it might be time to give us a call.
Signs To See Your Dentist in Lexington, KY
Many common dental problems need dental care. Here are some signs that you need to see a dental professional.
Tooth Pain
Sudden, sharp tooth pain is often a sign of a larger dental problem. If you have toothaches, you likely have a dental abscess or cavity. As tooth decay progresses, it can reach the dental pulp that keeps the tooth alive.
We may need to perform a root canal to preserve the natural tooth. If you have tooth pain and sensitivity, you may have tooth wear or an injury that requires professional treatment.
Bad Breath
Halitosis, or bad breath, can also be a sign of tooth decay or cavities. Bad breath can also be connected to certain medications or chronic health issues. If you have momentary bad breath from foods like garlic or onions, you can hydrate, brush, and floss to combat halitosis. However, if you have chronic bad breath, you need to visit a dental professional for care.
Red, Swollen, Bleeding Gums
If you notice gum problems like gum swelling and red gum tissue, you may have gingivitis. Gingivitis and gum inflammation is a precursor to gum disease. Additionally, if your gums bleed when you brush your teeth, you’re brush too hard. Gently brush and floss at least once daily before brushing your teeth to prevent bleeding.
Jaw Problems
If you wake up with jaw pain or have pain when you bite and chew hard or crunchy foods, you likely have a TMJ disorder. Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD) create dysfunction in the bite and the jaw. We can take digital x-rays of your teeth and jaw to find signs of wear in our office.
Our dental office can also create custom night guards to cover and protect teeth during sleep. Many patients with TMD also clench and grind their teeth. That causes tooth wear and jaw pain. Wearing a custom night guard can prevent tooth wear and discomfort.
Damaged or Loose Dental Work
Do you have a broken dental crown? Is your dental bridge loose? You need to contact our office for immediate care. Problems like broken or loose dental crowns, bridges, and dentures can create pain and damage the surrounding teeth and gums. Even cosmetic treatments like dental veneers will need replacements to prevent sensitivity in tooth enamel.
Sensitivity to Hot and Cold
If you’ve ever taken a sip of a hot drink or bitten into something cold and felt a sharp, zinging pain in your tooth, that’s a sign something isn’t right. While a little sensitivity can be normal, sudden or intense pain often means the enamel has worn down.
This can expose the sensitive inner dentin, which is full of tiny nerve tunnels. Sensitivity can be caused by a cavity, a cracked tooth, worn fillings, or even gum recession. Don’t just ignore it. Your dentist can figure out the cause and help you find relief.
A Sore or Bump That Won’t Go Away
Mouth sores from biting your cheek or from a minor injury usually heal within a week or two. But if you have a sore, ulcer, or a unusual bump in your mouth that doesn’t heal after two weeks, get it checked out. While often harmless, persistent sores can sometimes be a sign of other issues that need professional attention. Your dentist can examine any unusual spots in your mouth to ensure everything is healthy.
Dry Mouth All the Time
Everyone’s mouth feels dry now and then, especially if you’re nervous or dehydrated. But if you constantly feel like your mouth is sticky and dry, even when you drink water, it could be a sign of a bigger issue. Saliva is your mouth’s natural defense system. It washes away food particles and neutralizes acids produced by bacteria.
A chronic lack of saliva significantly increases your risk of cavities and gum disease. Your dentist can help find the cause of your dry mouth and recommend treatments to keep your mouth more comfortable and healthy.
You’re Embarrassed by Your Smile
This might not feel like a traditional “dental problem,” but if you avoid smiling, laughing, or speaking confidently because you’re unhappy with how your teeth look, it’s a perfect reason to see your dentist.
Feelings of self-consciousness about crooked, stained, or misshapen teeth can affect your social life and even your mental well-being. Modern dentistry offers many solutions, from professional whitening and clear aligners to veneers, that can help you have a smile you’re proud to share.
Do you need to schedule your next dental visit? Contact Dr. Morgan Chambers for dental care today at 859-251-3809. You can also request an appointment online.