Everyone knows in their bones (and perhaps their teeth) that they should get their oral health checked regularly. But when should you really be paying a visit to the dentist?
That’s the topic explored in this guide. We explain when it might be a good idea to put down whatever you’re doing right now and prioritize your oral health. Here’s everything you need to know:
You’ve Been Away For More Than Six Months
If it’s been more than six months since you went to the dentist, that’s a sign in itself that you need to pay them a visit. Going for long periods without a checkup is dangerous and could put you at risk of developing long-term health complications.
Most dentists suggest going to them once every six months or so. You could stretch this out to every 12 months with exceptional oral hygiene if you wanted. However, going any longer than that without a trip could be detrimental and not something you’ll want to do.
Toothache That Is Lingering
It’s also a good idea to go to the dentist if you have a toothache that seems to be lingering more than usual. Most people have toothaches that last a few days every few months. But if you have one that is more persistent, it could be a sign of periodontal infection or something equally serious.
Don’t allow lingering toothache to fester. Instead, deal with it quickly. It could mean you have a cracked tooth or tooth decay, which requires replacement quickly.
Bleeding Gums When Brushing Or Flossing
Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing is another sign you need to pay a visit to the dentist. Normally, that shouldn’t happen.
Unfortunately, bleeding gums is a sign of gingivitis, the first step in gum disease. If your gums bleed, it means that germs are preventing a proper seal between the gum and your teeth. What’s more, it could mean your breath smells and nobody is telling you.
The good news is that if you catch it early, you can reduce the risk of periodontitis, which leads to tooth loss. Going to the dentist for a proper cleaning and advice can stop the problem in its tracks.
Persistent Bad Breath
Bad breath is one of the most annoying health problems you can have because of how it affects your work and social life. Usually, tongue brushing and proper teeth cleaning and flossing will get rid of it. However, if these aren’t working, it usually indicates more advanced gum disease of a tooth abscess of some kind.
Again, you’ll want to go to the dentist to figure out what’s going wrong here. Usually, they can provide you with advice or direct treatment if they detect the source of the problem. If there’s hidden decay, it’s usually obvious on jaw scans.
Holes In Your Teeth, Brown or White Spots
If you see holes in your teeth, or brown or white spots, then that’s another sign it’s time to go for a checkup. These usually indicate direct issues with tooth mineralization.
For example, white spots are a sign of early demineralization. If you catch it during the early stages, you can remineralize teeth and make them healthier again.
If you have brown or black spots, though, these are usually cavities. This is where bacteria has had a chance to actually break through the enamel and eat deeper into the tooth. Unfortunately, this stage is beyond reversal and requires corrective treatment that only a dentist can provide.
Loose Adult Teeth
Loose adult teeth is a serious symptom and something you should address immediately if you notice it. Usually, it’s a sign of impending tooth loss.
Usually, dentists will provide you with antibiotics if they suspect periodontal disease. Then, then will see whether the tooth stabilizes. Unfortunately, periodontitis can create a “pocket” around a tooth that makes it much harder to heal in the future. As such, a lot of patients wind up replacing their natural teeth with more secure implants (that won’t decay). Loose adult teeth can also be bridged, which is a more affordable option.
Sores And Lumps In The Mouth
You also want to go for a checkup when you have sores and lumps in the mouth. If these issues don’t clear up themselves, they could indicate advanced gum disease and bite problems.
Gum disease generally affects one or two areas of the mouth. However, as it worsens, it can spread quickly and harm more areas.
Also, you want to be careful with lumps and bumps as they could indicate oral cancer. Most dentists will check your mouth as standard for possible lesions every time you visit for your safety and peace of mind.
Jaw Pain And Clicking
Having jaw pain and clicking is another reason to visit the dentist. If you notice this keeps happening, it could mean teeth grinding at night or some sort of TMJ issue.
The good news is that dentists treat this all the time. They have plenty of methods to correct it. Sometimes they will even offer a free orthodontic consultation to see whether you have jaw misalignment issues.
You’re Pregnant
If you’re pregnant, that’s another great reason to go to the dentist. Hormones can change your oral health and make you more prone to “pregnancy gum disease.”
If you haven’t been to the dentist yet, make sure you pay a visit in each trimester. Getting regular checkups gives you peace of mind and protects your teeth from harm in the future.
New Medical Conditions Or Complications
Finally, if you have new medical conditions or complications, then it’s worth going to the dentist as a precaution. For example, if your diabetes worsens, that can increase the risk of gum disease due to the sugar content of the blood. If you’ve also gone on chemo or radiation, that can also be an issue that you’ll want to address quickly.
So there you have it: some of the reasons why you might want to go to the dentist for a checkup.
The owners of Cinnamon Hollow and many of its authors are not doctors and this is in no way intended to be used as medical advice. We cannot be held responsible for your results. As with any product, service or supplement, use at your own risk. Always do your own research and consult with your personal physician before using.
Meg is an author at Cinnamon Hollow. She writes on a variety of topics sharing tips and ideas for daily life.
