4 Common Reasons You Might Need To Visit A Dentist

Posted on: 12 May 2022

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Most patients prefer to see a dentist only when reporting worrying dental issues. On the contrary, it's beneficial to visit your dentist regularly for preventative dental services such as tooth cleaning and oral cancer screening. Besides routine check-ups, it's essential to see a dentist when you experience unusual dental issues. Read on to discover some common reasons to visit your dentist.

1. Bad Breath

An unpleasant smell after a long night's sleep shouldn't be unusual. Certain foods like onions and garlic also cause bad breath. However, brushing and flossing should help eliminate the bad odor and keep it in check.

If you maintain high oral hygiene and the bad odor doesn't seem to go away, it's time to seek professional help. Halitosis could occur due to underlying medical conditions such as oral infections, kidney problems, or gum diseases. It could also happen due to tonsil stones or as a result of tobacco use. Talk to a dentist about the problem to help you remedy the situation.

2. Suspected Periodontal Disease

Gum diseases occur when bacteria attack the gums and oral tissues. It can occur alongside tooth decay. You'll need a dentist to examine your oral tissues and gums to determine if you have periodontal disease.

Common signs include bleeding gums, inflamed gums, unexplained bad breath, and expanding teeth gaps. The specialist will recommend a suitable solution to treat the disease and prevent further dental issues like tooth loss and decay.  

3. Grinding Teeth

Some patients grind their teeth involuntarily when sleeping. Over time, the enamel becomes thin and fragile. You'll know you have been grinding your teeth if you constantly wake up to a sore jaw, unexplained chipped teeth, or constant headaches.

Teeth grinding may be caused by sleep apnea or abnormal bites. Consider setting an appointment with a reputable dentist if you realize you have been clenching and grinding your teeth. The specialist might recommend a mouthguard and therapy to offset the habit.

4. Extreme Tooth Sensitivity

Your teeth have nerves that detect extreme hot or cold temperatures. Sometimes the experience can be too intense. You may begin feeling pain from inhaling cold air. This shows that something is wrong. Tooth sensitivity occurs when the enamel wears out and becomes too thin, exposing the nerve endings to exterior temperatures. It also occurs due to chips and cracks on the tooth. The symptom can be controlled through the use of fluoride. Also, other treatment options such as crowns may help.

If you have experienced any of the signs discussed above, consider contacting a dentist. Early treatment can help you avoid a lot of pain and suffering. Seek help today and restore your oral health.