It’s true; going to the dentist doesn’t top anyone’s list of favorite things. However, regular dental visits are essential to your oral and overall health. It’s best to visit your White Bear Lake dentist every six months for a routine checkup and cleaning, but if you haven’t been to the dentist for a while, what are the signs you might need to make an appointment sooner rather than later?
Keep reading to find out when to schedule an appointment at White Bear Smiles.
Signs You Need to See a Dentist
There are several indicators that you should seek dental treatment; ignoring any of the following symptoms or situations could lead to more extensive treatment:
- Mouth pain — When you have mouth, jaw, or tooth pain, it probably won’t go away. Dental pain can indicate several issues, including tooth decay, gum disease, or TMJ issues.
- Swollen gums — If your gums are puffy or red or bleed when you brush or floss, it’s best to contact your dentist. You could have periodontal disease, a serious oral infection.
- Missing teeth — Gaps in your smile can cause you to feel self-conscious and embarrassed in social situations. Missing teeth can also cause oral health problems; your teeth can shift into the open spaces in your mouth, and you can lose valuable jawbone density.
- Dental work — Any time you’ve had dental work, such as dental crowns, fillings, implants, or dentures, it’s best to visit your dentist. This allows them to check your dental work and ensure your oral health is intact.
- Medical issues — For patients with diabetes or cardiovascular disease, regular dental visits are crucial to maintaining the best oral and overall health.
- Pregnancy — When you’re pregnant, some dental issues can worsen, so don’t avoid dental visits during your pregnancy.
- Trouble eating — If you’re having difficulty chewing or swallowing, contact your dentist so they can determine whether the issue is related to your teeth or gums.
- Tobacco use — Smoking or using smokeless tobacco can be harmful to your oral health, so don’t skip dental appointments if you use tobacco.
- Mouth sores — If you have mouth sores that don’t go away on their own, it could mean you have an infection or virus. Don’t ignore the symptoms; call your dentist for an appointment.
Looking for General Dentistry in White Bear Lake, MN?
If you need a dental cleaning in White Bear Lake, look no further than the expert dental team at White Bear Smiles! We can provide compassionate dental care and get your oral health back on track.
To schedule an appointment, call (651) 426-8998. We look forward to hearing from you.