Tooth Time: How often should you go to the dentist?
Everyone should visit their dentists twice a year as part of maintaining good oral health - those who do, lower their risk of tooth decay, gum disease and oral cancer drastically. However, making additional trips to the dentist when you notice abnormalities could save you more than just money. If you spot any of these five warnings signs, it’s time for a trip to the dentist.
Sensitivity to hot and cold
If you’re noticing an increased sensitivity to hot and cold, it may be the warning sign of a developing cavity. Cavities are decayed areas of a tooth that result in small holes and openings. When you eat hot or cold food, the holes from cavities expose your tooth nerves to the temperature change, which causes sensitivity and discomfort. A visit to the dentist can help you get to the root cause of your discomfort and treatment may be as simple as switching up your toothpaste.
Bumps in your mouth
Discovering painless bumps anywhere on your body can cause a bit of a fright. We recommend checking your mouth every few weeks for any abnormal bumps that don’t seem to go away. While the chances are it isn’t anything serious, it’s well worth your time to be certain with a dental trip. We’re all aware of cancer warning signs, but spotting them early might just save your life.
Bleeding gums
Red, sore or bleeding gums are a telltale sign of gum disease. Spotting inflammation early can make gum disease treatment a whole lot simpler, so be on the eye out for any reddening in your mouth tissue. Mild forms of gum disease can be easily treated, however, more developed versions can lead to infection and tooth loss. As always, visit your dentist just to be safe if you have sore or red gums.
Jaw pain or frequent headaches
Are you regularly waking up with jaw pain and pounding headaches? You could be suffering from bruxism, a form of teeth grinding that works away involuntarily during your sleep. If left, you can do some serious damage to your enamel, as well as increased pain in your mouth and head. Thankfully, our dentistry has plenty of ways to give you a helping hand, including mouthguards and expert advice.
Putting up with pain or discomfort only leads one way - more pain and discomfort. Checking in with your dentist outside your regular visits is one of the best ways to improve your oral health. Remember - it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
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