Ideally, you should schedule oral exams and dental cleanings every six months. Regular cleanings and exams can help detect and address the most common diseases affecting teeth and gums. Sadly, not many people follow that practice and only book an appointment when they have an immediate concern. In this post, we will discuss the signs that require you to see your family dentist in Northwest Albuquerque, NM, immediately.
Your gum tissues are bleeding
If you have noticed blood while brushing and flossing your teeth, you may have gum disease. While mild bleeding once in a few months may not be a serious issue, regular bleeding is a problem. Periodontal disease is reversible when diagnosed early. After an initial oral exam, your dentist may recommend deep cleaning procedures, such as scaling and root planing, which will remove plaque and tartar. They may even inject antibiotics in gum tissues to accelerate the healing.
You have a toothache
Pain in your teeth is not normal, and if you are experiencing a severe toothache, consider that an emergency. Toothaches are often related to deep decay, cavities, and gum disease. If you have an infection inside the chamber of a tooth, your dentist may suggest root canal therapy. For pain related to exposed tooth roots due to gum disease, you will need a gum graft. Your dentist will identify the cause and discuss treatment options accordingly.
You have sensitivity
If you have been lately experiencing trouble while eating hot and cold foods, you probably have tooth sensitivity, which often results from decay and infection. For mild sensitivity, your dentist may suggest using special toothpaste, while advanced cases may require aggressive treatment. If a tooth has mild decay, they may use a filling or recommend a crown.
You cannot get rid of bad breath
While having bad breath once in a while isn’t a major concern, you should be worried if the problem persists. Regular brushing and flossing can help avoid halitosis, but chronic bad breath is usually a sign of an underlying problem, such as decay and gum disease. Your dentist will find the possible reason and discuss various ways to address the issue.
Your teeth appear longer
If your teeth are looking longer than usual, you might be suffering from advanced gum disease that causes gum recession. Gum recession can expose the tooth roots and lead to tooth loss. Treatments may vary, but for extreme loss of gum tissues, the standard treatment is gum grafting. When there are deep pockets between teeth and gums, the dentist may consider options like flap surgery.
A crown has fallen off
Dental restorations can break, chip, or come off with time, and if you have a crown or bridge that has fallen, see the dentist immediately. They may be able to fix the restoration again or will order a new one. Restorations are critical for your bite, and replacements are necessary.
You have a broken or knocked-off tooth
Severe impact or accidents can cause damage to your teeth. If a tooth has been knocked off and fallen from the socket, keep it in a clean glass containing milk and visit the clinic right away. Your dentist can save the tooth if you see them within an hour. For broken or chipped teeth, treatments may vary depending on the extent and nature of the injury.
Takeaway
If you haven’t visited your family dental clinic in Northwest Albuquerque for more than six months, you are already due for a checkup. Children and adults can benefit a lot from dental exams because by the time you experience any of the issues discussed above, the problem is already severe.
