3 Signs to See a Dentist

Trips to the dentist are regular parts of an effective dental care regimen. Knowing when to go is crucial because it’s the key to treating issues early. Timely treatment prevents more extensive decay and other problems, and there are clear signs it’s time for an exam. Book a visit if you’re dealing with the following.

No amount of pain is worth dismissing. Even subtle, reoccurring pain can be a sign of a larger issue, like a root canal infection. Repeating serious pain could be a sign of a cavity or tooth sensitivity. 

Regardless, it’s important to see the dentist, both for pain relief and your well-being. They’ll perform a comprehensive exam and then recommend treatment options like a cavity filling for root canal therapy to eliminate the problem.

Swollen, puffy gums often mean you’re dealing with gingivitis—the precursor to gum disease. Plaque collects along your gumline, inflaming tissue and causing gums to bleed. It’s luckily easy to resolve in these early stages with professional cleaning. When unaddressed, however, plaque builds below the gumline, leading to gum disease. This condition can lead to serious tissue infections and tooth loss, so don’t delay a trip to the dentist.

The American Dental Association recommends a professional exam and cleaning every 6 months. Book one now if you’re overdue. Dental hygienists deep clean your teeth to keep decay-causing bacteria at bay. They can also identify potential issues like the first signs of decay or eroding enamel, and the dentist will provide treatment options to keep these conditions from advancing.