When should a dental visit become a priority? Many individuals reply, “when I have a tooth ache”. Even worse, some avoid a trip to the dentist unless the pain is severe. However, there are many other situations when you should see the dentist.
If you’ve had a toothache before, you know how miserable trying to “wait it out” is. In fact, sharp tooth pains or continuous toothaches are often signs of a deeper problem and typically, the pain only gets worse if it is left untreated. If you have any swelling in your cheeks or around the area that hurts, this is likely a sign of an infection in the root, which requires treatment from your dentist. You may be prescribed an antibiotic to treat the infection first. This step usually helps ease the pain a bit, but a full treatment of the infected and dying root will be necessary to prevent further infection and pain.
If you wake up in the morning with a headache or neck pain or find yourself clenching or grinding your teeth throughout the day, you should see your dentist. You might have issues with your temporomandibular joints, or TMJ. TMJ treatment is best handled by a dentist, who can help recommend exercises, stress relief tactics, or even devices you can wear at night to ease your symptoms.
Bacteria in the mouth do not only cause plaque to form on teeth but it can also cause an inflammation of the gums. If you do not remove bacteria with regular brushing and flossing routines, it can build up. This can result in swollen, red, or bleeding gums. Several factors such as your brushing and flossing technique, smoking, medication, nutrition, or gum disease can influence the state of your gums. If you experience soreness around your gums, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist to investigate the underlying cause.
Some patients naturally have more sensitive teeth. Tooth sensitivity is typically treated with sensitivity toothpaste. But if you’re experiencing extreme sensitivity to hot and cold (especially if it is sudden or unusual for you), this could indicate a deeper issue. Our teeth can become hypersensitive to hot or cold foods and drinks when their protective layer, the enamel, is damaged or worn down. If the tooth’s internal nerves are exposed and unprotected, a sharp pain may arise when temperature travels into the tooth.
If you’ve had any sort of injury or trauma to your mouth, you’ll want to see your dentist, whether it feels like a dental emergency or not. Trauma to the teeth can sometimes cause damage to the root so it’s important to see your dentist so they can monitor the injured area.
Oral health is not just limited to your teeth, but the entire mouth. It is very important to take care of it to avoid inconveniences and also to boost your self-esteem. In Richmond, VA and the surrounding areas, Care First Dental - Affordable Dentist, Medicaid Dentist, Dentures, Extractions & Crowns is the right dentist you need for al your dental and oral concerns. Call us at (804) 648-1305 for inquiries.