Signs That Your Dental Problem Won't Wait

In some cases, those regular cleaning and dental checkup appointments may not be enough. Read below to learn about some signs that it's time to make an appointment with your dentist before your next scheduled appointment.

Lost Fillings 

The longer you wait to have this issue addressed, the greater the chances of decay. Also, many teeth with fillings are already less stable, and tooth breakage could create a bigger problem to solve than just a filling replacement.

Pink Toothbrushes 

Any time you notice pink or even red residue on your brush or floss, you might have a gum issue that needs looking at. Bleeding gums are a prime indicator of potentially serious gum disorders.

Cracked or Broken Teeth 

Your tooth has the potential to be saved if you act quickly after you notice a crack or chip. You may need to have a crown (cap) placed on the tooth to ensure it is stable and doesn't deteriorate any further.

Sensitivity to Hot and Cold 

If you have sensitive teeth, you probably have known about it for some time. It's when it happens unexpectedly that is the problem. When food or drinks in extreme temperatures cause discomfort, you may have a cavity, a filling that is about to fall out, or a crack in your tooth. Take action and call your dentist.

Knocked-out Teeth 

You have not necessarily lost a tooth that has been knocked out. Retrieve the tooth and leave any gum tissue intact. You can buy tooth preservation kits at the drugstore. If you get to the dentist as soon as possible, the tooth may be reattached using wires. In some cases, the tooth will permanently attach.

Abscesses 

You may not feel any pain with a gum abscess, but many people do. An abscess is a pus-filled pocket on your gum and is a sign of infection. Bacteria is the culprit with abscesses and they can wreak havoc once they enter your gums through an opening or a cavity. If left untreated, the abscess can cause serious body-wide issues so make sure to get some antibiotics on board immediately. Once the infection is cleared, your dentist will address the cause of the abscess.

Pain in the Mouth 

It's not natural to feel pain in your mouth, and the cause may be serious or not. To be on the safe side, call your dentist and make an appointment. You might have a cavity, an infection, or just a harmless mouth sore.

To find out more about any of the above dental issues, speak with a dentist like Dr. Jon Douglas Lesan, DDS, RpH, PA.