When You Should Call Your Dentist for a Dental Checkup
When was your last dental checkup? Read on to learn about the importance of sticking to regular dental appointments. The American Dental Association recommends getting a dental checkup at least twice per year. These visits are crucial for preventing tooth decay and gum disease. A dental checkup also gives the dentist a chance to notice abnormalities in a person’s mouth, like symptoms of gum disease or abnormal growths. Early detection of dental issues is crucial, as many oral health issues can be reversed in their early stages without the need for extensive treatment.
Reasons to visit your dentist for a dental checkup
Toothache
Toothaches are nature’s way of letting you know something is wrong in your mouth. While there are countless over-the-counter products that help to alleviate the pain caused by tooth pain, the only way to permanently bring it to an end is to address the root cause. A dentist can perform diagnostic tests to pinpoint the cause of the pain and recommend appropriate treatments.
Bleeding gums
Bleeding gums are one of the symptoms of gum disease. A person’s gums bleeding once in a while is not a significant issue, but gums that bleed every time you brush might be infected. Gum disease is a bacterial infection of the gum tissues, and it occurs in two main stages. Gingivitis is the first stage, and it can be reversed with improved oral hygiene and regular teeth cleanings.
If left untreated, gingivitis evolves into periodontitis, the advanced stage of gum disease. The infection is chronic at this point, so it can only be managed with treatments. Periodontitis is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. It causes permanent damage to the gum and bone structures that keep teeth in place. Other symptoms of gum disease include tender and inflamed gums.
Abnormal growth in the mouth or lips
Abnormal growths in or around a person’s mouth might be a sign of oral cancer, so it is best to check it out immediately. Dentists perform oral cancer screens during dental checkups, and samples of any abnormal tissue are taken and sent to a lab.
Discolored teeth
A dental checkup can include cosmetic treatments that address issues like stained and discolored teeth. Dentists have many ways to improve the shade of a patient’s teeth, like teeth whitening, veneers, composite bonding, and crowns. Any other issues detected during the checkup, such as eroded teeth, can also be addressed during the appointment.
Loose restoration
A dental restoration that becomes loose no longer provides the protection it was placed for. It means acids and bacteria are free to attack the tooth underneath. A loose restoration generally constitutes a dental emergency because it requires immediate treatment.
Make your dental health a priority
Regular dental checkups help keep your teeth and gums healthy, reducing your risk of developing issues like tooth decay and gum disease. Are you due for your next visit? Call our South Gate dental office to set up an appointment.
Request an appointment here: http://embracedentalandortho.com or call Embrace Dental and Orthodontics at (562) 630-7777 for an appointment in our South Gate office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Checkup in South Gate, CA.
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