Regular check-ups with the dentist are the best way to maintain oral health and know if you need further dental care at an office like ours in Webster. But with over 75% of adults experiencing dental phobia, putting off a trip to the dentist may seem like the more comfortable option.1
Leaving your teeth to a buildup of plaque and tartar results in tooth decay and pain. However, making a trip to the dentist is inevitable.
If you’ve been avoiding your regular dental visits, it’s a matter of time before you develop problems like cavities, tooth decay, or gum disease. If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, it’s time to book in for dental care in Webster.
1. White Spots on Your Teeth
If you notice white spots on your teeth, it could indicate bacterial overgrowth. Our mouths don’t shed periodically like our skin, and hard surfaces are ideal for bacteria to grow. Sometimes brushing alone can’t eliminate all the bacteria, and tooth decay can set in.
While the white spots may be the early signs of decay, dental care in Webster can help halt the process before a cavity forms.
2. Dental Pain
A dentist should assess any toothache, jaw pain, or gum pain. Pain commonly stems from decay or gum disease, leading to more severe conditions if left untreated. Even if the pain comes and goes, it’s still essential to get it checked out.
3. Pain or Swelling in Your Gums
Gums keep our teeth in place, and if your gums become diseased, it can result in tooth loss. If you notice any of the following signs, we recommend booking an appointment for dental care in Webster:
- Sore, swollen, and red gums
- Bleeding during brushing
- Receding gums
- Loose teeth
4. A Chipped or Cracked Tooth
If you have a cracked or chipped tooth, it may not initially cause you any pain. However, if left, a damaged tooth becomes an ideal breeding ground for bacteria and decay to begin. If it progresses long enough, you could need a root canal or extraction. Therefore, fixing a broken or chipped tooth is much easier as soon as the damage occurs.
5. Sensitivity to Hot or Cold
Sensitivity to hot or cold foods and liquids is common, and sometimes using a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth can help. However, if the sensitivity persists and becomes troublesome, it could mean the tooth’s outer enamel is damaged.
6. Bad Breath
We all have stinky breath from time to time, especially if we’ve enjoyed garlic or onion in our food. But persistent bad breath could be caused by odor-producing bacteria in your mouth. A dentist will help determine the cause and make your breath odor-free again.
7. Difficulty Chewing
Sometimes if teeth are sore, we compensate by chewing differently. Unfortunately, this can lead to jaw misalignment and cause jaw pain. If you can only eat soft foods due to tooth pain, it’s time to see a dentist.
8. Frequent Headaches
If you suffer from headaches regularly, it’s best to see both your doctor and dentist. There are many reasons for headaches, but if they occur more frequently in the morning, you could be grinding or clenching your teeth in your sleep. Your dentist will help you find a solution using personal mouth guards or muscle relaxation techniques.
9. Sores And Lumps
A dentist should check out any sores or lumps in your mouth, particularly if they haven’t healed within a week. Canker sores, thrush, and cold sores are easy to treat. However, some sores can be a sign of oral cancers. It’s uncommon, but it’s always best to err on the side of caution and get it checked.
10. Loose Dental Work
Fillings and crowns may need to be replaced over time to prevent problems in the rest of the tooth or surrounding gums. Any loose fillings or crowns should be dealt with straight away to prevent decay from setting in and causing pain.
Looking for the Best Dental Care in Webster?
At Empire Dental Care, we offer family dentistry with a gentle touch. Nobody should fear the dentist, and we ensure your visit to our practice is as stress-free and pain-free as possible. Please explore our dental services further, or book your appointment today by contacting us online or calling our office at 585.671.1650.
Sources
[1] https://www.statisticstats.com/health/dentophobia-statistics-of-dentist-fear-and-anxiety/
