From young children to a demanding job, several things can make it tempting to put off seemingly minor oral health issues until your schedule lightens up. However, warning signs of a dental issue should not be taken lightly. Early detection is crucial as it can help prevent serious problems from developing and lead to less invasive treatments. It’s important to know when to see a dentist as oral health is connected to your overall health. Please continue reading to learn when it’s time to get a dentist’s opinion and why connecting with our general dentistry/dentists located in Basking Ridge & Morristown, NJ is in your best interest.
What Are Signs You Need to See the Dentist?
If you experience persistent pain or swelling in your teeth or gums, it could be a sign that one of many different things is wrong, and you should visit your dentist for an examination. It’s important to note that lingering pain isn’t normal, and you don’t have to just live with it. Even if the pain temporarily goes away at some point, the core problem could remain and pose a significant threat to your overall oral health.
If you notice bleeding after brushing or flossing, it could mean you are developing gum disease. Essentially, this is an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to serious issues such as bone loss around the teeth and eventually tooth loss. Other signs of gum disease you should look out for are red, inflamed, or tender gums. While some gum recession is a normal part of getting older, it can also be a sign of gum disease. Retreating gums may expose the delicate roots of teeth, which increases the risk of infections and tooth decay. However, when it’s detected early, treatment can stop or even reverse the process.
If your mouth feels unusually dry, it could indicate an illness. It’s important to understand that a healthy mouth is lubricated by saliva, which washes away debris and neutralizes the acids produced by plaque. Dry mouth increases the risk of tooth decay and fungal infections. Your dentist will identify the underlying issue causing dry mouth and recommend treatment options to restore moisture in your mouth. Furthermore, you should keep an eye out for any new tooth sensitivity. If tooth sensitivity doesn’t go away, you may have worn enamel, a cavity, an abscess, or exposed teeth roots.
When you are experiencing any pain or discomfort, it’s important to understand that only a dentist can determine how to treat the underlying issue and help avoid future problems. As such, it’s in your best interest to schedule an appointment with our dedicated team at Dental Associates of Basking Ridge, who can help treat your mouth with the care and concern that it deserves.
