Top Reasons to See the Dentist Between Checkups You usually have your teeth cleaned and checked twice a year, and you think you know how...
Top Reasons to See the Dentist Between Checkups
You usually have your teeth cleaned and checked twice a year, and you think you know how to take care of your teeth at home. Still, there are times when you may want or need to go to the dentist in between your regular visits. Here are 10 reasons to go to the dentist. Each one could be a sign of problems you haven't found yet or make you more likely to have dental problems.
1. You keep having health problems. Some long-term health problems, like diabetes, heart disease, and eating disorders, can make you more likely to have dental problems like tooth decay and gum disease. The same is true if you are getting certain medical treatments, like radiation or hormone replacement therapy, or if you are taking certain prescription drugs. Your dentist can tell you the best way to take care of your teeth based on your health history.
2. You're pregnant. Changes in your hormones during pregnancy can make you more likely to get gingivitis and tooth decay. While you're pregnant, you may want to have your teeth cleaned more often and talk to your dentist about changing how you care for your teeth at home.
3. You're hurting or swollen. On their own, a toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold foods or drinks, a numb tooth, or swelling in the mouth, face, or neck can be painful. But they could also be symptoms of something more serious, like an infection, a broken tooth, tooth decay, or gum disease. If you don't treat the symptoms, they are likely to get worse.
4. Your gums are tender, swollen or bleeding. These are warning signs that plaque is building up under the gum line, which can lead to cavities and gum disease. They could even be a sign of something more serious, like diabetes or some cancers. With a deep cleaning, your dentist can improve the health of your gums and help you figure out what's wrong.
5. Eating hurts. If you have trouble chewing or swallowing, it could be because you have a broken or infected tooth or a problem with your jaw. Your dentist can figure out what's wrong and suggest a treatment.
6. You always have a dry mouth. This could be a sign of a health problem or a side effect of the medicine you're taking. Even so, a dry mouth means that you aren't making enough saliva, which can cause tooth decay. Your dentist can suggest ways to add moisture back into your mouths, such as a special toothpaste, mouthwash, or prescription drugs.
7. Your breath smells bad all the time. Bad breath can make you feel embarrassed and awkward in social situations, and it could also be a sign of something more serious, like an infection, acid reflux, chronic bronchitis, or another health problem. Your dentist can help you figure out why you have bad breath and give you tips on how to fix it.
8. Your jaw hurts, clicks, or gets stuck. Something is wrong with your jaw if you hear pops, feel pain when you open or close your mouth (including when you chew), or if your jaw locks open or closed. It could be a cyst, a tumor, or a sign of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). A trip to the dentist can help figure out what's going on and fix the problem.
9. You have sores, spots, or changes in the feel of your mouth, gums, or tongue. These could be caused by something as simple as an irritation, or they could be signs of an infection or even something more serious, like oral cancer. If these symptoms last for more than a week or seem to be spreading, you should see your dentist.
10. You don't like your smile. If you don't want to smile because you are missing, chipped, crooked, or have stained teeth, your dentist can help. Your dentist has many ways to give you a beautiful smile, such as teeth whitening, veneers, and braces.
Why Regular Dental Check-ups Are Important
Conclusion
Even if you don't have any of these signs, it's important to get regular dental checkups to help prevent, find, and treat dental problems before they get worse. The CareCredit credit card can help you pay for dental exams, cosmetic dental work, and other costs that aren't covered by insurance. This will help you keep your teeth healthy and white. * Use the Acceptance Locator or the CareCredit Mobile App to find a provider near you who accepts the CareCredit card.