5 Warning Signs You Need To See a Dentist

Are your teeth causing you pain or discomfort? Your teeth may be signaling that a trip to the dentist is long overdue. Ignoring these warning signs could lead to more serious oral health issues. Let's delve into the top five red flags that indicate you should schedule an appointment with your dentist pronto.



1. Gum Issues

Overly red, irritated, or bleeding gums might indicate gum disease, which develops due to the influence of bacteria in the mouth. These germs can accumulate if you do not floss and brush your teeth daily. If left untreated, gum disease can cause degeneration of gum tissue, periodontitis, and tooth loss in severe cases.

Receding gums can be a natural aspect of aging but can also indicate gum disease. It uncovers the tooth's sensitive roots, which increases the likelihood of decomposition, infection, discomfort, and tooth loss.

Inflamed gums produce pain, discomfort, and plaque buildup around the gums. If left untreated, this can lead to gingivitis or periodontitis.

2. Teeth Discoloration

Drinking tea, coffee, or soda and smoking are common causes of tooth discoloration. Discoloration can also occur due to poor dental hygiene and medication.

Yellow, gray, and brown stains are some of the most common for discoloration. If you see yellowing on your teeth, it could be due to simple staining, which you can correct with teeth whitening. However, dark or gray areas indicate a more serious problem, such as deterioration. In this instance, see your emergency dentist promptly.

White patches on the teeth are another early indicator of dental decay. If a dentist does not handle the acids that cause the white discoloration, the acid will continue to damage the tooth pulp, causing additional decay and perhaps tooth loss.

3. Pain and Sensitivity

You should see a dentist immediately if you have acute, pulsating, or constant pain in your gums, teeth, jawline, or face. Toothaches, jaw discomfort, and headaches are all symptoms of a more significant underlying problem that should be addressed immediately. Cavities, abscesses, fractured teeth, defective fillings, and teeth grinding may all trigger pain and sensitivity.

Degradation of tooth enamel on our teeth is the primary cause of tooth sensitivity. When your tooth enamel wears down, the deterioration exposes the inner nerves of the tooth. It leaves them unprotected, resulting in severe pain or unpleasant experience when hot or cold food contacts it.

A dentist can provide fluoride therapies and cover exposed dentinal tubules to rebuild the protective covering of enamel. They can also advise you of ways to reduce your tooth sensitivity, such as using sensitive-tooth toothpaste, avoiding acidic beverages and foods, avoiding rough or crunchy food items, and using a soft-bristled toothbrush.

4. Dental Injuries

Tooth injuries like breaks, chips, and tooth loss can progress faster if left untreated, which can cause intense pain and sensitivity in addition to the danger of infection. Furthermore, mild movement or expanding gaps in your teeth or changes in how your teeth align together when you bite could indicate infection or bone loss. A dentist can recognize and address these problems before they worsen.

5. Canker Sores

Canker sores are small superficial lesions inside the mouth, on the lips, or on the tongue. They are typically white or yellow with a crimson border and might develop as just one sore or in clusters.

Canker sores, while painful, usually heal within a few days to a few weeks. You should consult a dentist if you get a canker sore lasting over two weeks. This could be a symptom of a more serious underlying issue, such as an immunological disorder, celiac disease, or a vitamin shortage.

A dentist can determine the source of the blister and offer a treatment strategy to alleviate pain and hasten recovery. Special mouthwashes, topical medicines, or immunotherapy may be used in treatment.

Contact us at Bochiechio Personalized Dentistry for dentist services.