Whether or not you see your dentist in Alexandria every six months, the truth is, things in your mouth can change rapidly and you may experience a sudden onset of symptoms that may concern you. However, not every new thing that you notice in your teeth, gums, or mouth is necessarily something to worry about. So how do you know whether what you’re experiencing is an early warning sign of dental trouble or not? Let’s find out.
Signs It’s Time to See a Dentist
It’s important to pay attention to changes in your oral health, just as it’s important to pay attention to changes in the rest of your body. Oftentimes, if you catch a dental problem early, treatment is easier, quicker, less expensive, and can keep a small problem from becoming a big problem. Here are some of the most common early warning signs of dental trouble that you should look out for.
1. Bleeding Gums
Gums that bleed or are red and swollen can be an early sign of gum disease. This serious condition can lead to problems in the mouth as well as throughout the rest of the body. In fact, gum disease has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, respiratory problems, and tooth loss. While gum disease can be treated successfully in its earliest stages, it can reach a point where it becomes impossible to reverse. Since early detection is key, it’s crucial to see your dentist in Alexandria as soon as possible if your gums bleed when you eat or while brushing and flossing your teeth.
2. Bad Breath
Bad breath may seem like a silly thing to be concerned about, but in actuality, it can be a sign that something is wrong. Chronic bad breath can result from a buildup of bacteria in the mouth, whether due to not brushing your teeth enough or because of gum disease. Despite being embarrassing, bad breath may also indicate problems in other areas of your body such as GERD, kidney disease, or diabetic problems like ketoacidosis.
3. Tooth Sensitivity
Many people experience tooth sensitivity, and sometimes it’s not a sign of a problem that needs attention. However, if tooth sensitivity occurs suddenly or the zings of pain make it impossible to enjoy your favorite hot or cold foods, it’s best to visit your dentist. Tooth sensitivity can be a sign of gum recession, cavities, or a broken or cracked tooth.
4. Pain
Pain in a tooth, your jaw, or the gums usually requires a dental visit to get relief. Pain is never normal and is your body’s way of letting you know that something isn’t right. A toothache may mean there’s a cavity. Jaw pain may be a sign of TMD, a disorder that affects the jaw joint. Gum pain may indicate gum disease or recession. The best way to get out of pain is to find out what’s causing it and allow your dentist to recommend the best treatment for you.
Some of the best ways to prevent these problems and avoid an unexpected dental appointment are to take good care of your oral health at home by brushing and flossing your teeth every day, drinking plenty of water, and eating a well-balanced diet. It’s also important to see your dentist in Alexandria at least twice a year for regular checkups. These checkups can catch any potential problems before they interfere with your life and require an emergency visit.
We’re always accepting new patients from Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, and nearby areas.
