It is highly recommended that you visit your dentist every six months for a routine check-up, according to the American Dental Association. However, there are some instances in which you may need to schedule an appointment a bit earlier than planned in order to remedy any unexpected oral health issues. If you’re experiencing any of these five symptoms, be sure to schedule your next dental visit right away.
1. If your teeth are sensitive to hot or cold…
This may be an indication that you have dental decay. When tooth decay wears away at your enamel, it exposes the dentin layer beneath. This layer is comprised of microscopic tubules that provide direct access to nerves within the teeth, making them hypersensitive to outside stimuli. If your teeth are sensitive to extreme temperatures, your dentist should look at them immediately to prevent further damage.
2. If your gums bleed when you floss…
Many people mistake bleeding while flossing to be normal. However, this is actually a sign of a gum infection known as gingivitis. If gingivitis is left untreated, the issue can progress further to become gum disease, which can lead to a number of health issues. Therefore, the earlier you treat gingivitis, the better!
3. If you’d like to improve the appearance of your smile…
You don’t have to endure chips, stains, or crooked teeth. There are a number of cosmetic dental procedures that can remedy any issues you may have with your smile. The most common procedure is professional teeth whitening, which can remove years of stains from the surface of your teeth in just one appointment. At Advanced Family Dental & Orthodontics, we also provide a number of cosmetic treatments including veneers, bonding, and even dental implants.
4. If you are pregnant…
It is very important to take extra care of your oral health when you are pregnant. For starters, pregnant women who suffer from morning sickness are more likely to endure tooth decay as a result of stomach acids. They are also more likely to have dry mouth, which can cause bad breath and tooth decay. Most importantly, pregnant women are likely to have “pregnancy gingivitis,” which wreaks havoc on the gums until after childbirth. Gingivitis unfortunately leads to gum disease, which has been proven to cause premature labor. Therefore, be certain to let your dentist know you are pregnant when you go to your next dental appointment.
5. If you have jaw pain in the morning…
Waking up to jaw pain in the morning (as well as headaches, dental pain, or jaw clicking) can be a strong indication that you grind your teeth in your sleep. This can lead to a number of oral health complications, including broken teeth, TMJ problems, and dental decay. Your dentist will be able to confirm if you suffer from nighttime bruxism (teeth grinding), and can help to find a solution that works best for you!
Are you suffering from any of the above oral health issues? Is it time to schedule your next routine check-up? Simply call your local Advanced Family Dental & Orthodontics office to set up your next appointment!