As dental professionals, we seek to help patients avoid oral health problems by providing preventive care, such as dental cleanings, exams, fluoride treatments, and dental sealants. Additionally, we prioritize patient education so that every patient knows how to properly care for his or her mouth at home.

Unfortunately, not all oral health problems can be avoided. Here are six indications that you should visit a general dentist:

1.    Bleeding or irritated gums

Nearly half of all American adults have some form of gum disease. Although there are other symptoms, bleeding and irritated gums tend to be the most noticeable. When patients visit the dentist at the first sign of gum disease, it is usually reversible. However, waiting to receive treatment may lead to a chronic condition that can only be treated, not reversed.

Other symptoms of gum disease include:

• Persistent bad breath
• Gum recession
• Bright red gums
• Tooth movement
• Puffy gums

Contact your dentist immediately if you are experiencing these symptoms.

2.    A chipped or cracked tooth

Whether a tooth has been damaged because of hard candy, crunchy food, or sports injury, it should be evaluated by a dental professional. Long after the bleeding and pain stop, the tooth could still be in danger. Sometimes, a chip or small crack does more damage than is visible.

Dentists have the tools and technology to determine whether the tooth requires further treatment, such as a dental crown or dental bonding. Without these necessary treatments, disease-causing bacteria could infiltrate the tooth, causing immense pain.

3.    Jaw pain

Jaw pain could be related to bruxism, or teeth grinding, which usually occurs during sleep. When a person grinds his teeth, he is putting hundreds of pounds of pressure on his teeth—no wonder it hurts the jaw! This could also result in worn, cracked, or broken teeth.

You may have bruxism if you are experiencing any of these symptoms:

• Facial pain
• Dull headaches in the morning
• Exhaustion throughout the day
• Dental sensitivity
• Locking of the jaw

A general dentist can help you treat the underlying symptoms of teeth grinding and have a custom mouthguard created to protect your teeth and jaw from more damage.

4.    Persistent bad breath

While it is normal to experience bad breath after eating garlic and/or onions, having bad breath all the time isn’t. Constant bad breath, also known as halitosis, could stem from the following issues:

• Dry mouth
• High-sugar diet
• Poor oral hygiene
• Tobacco use
• Digestive issues
• Other overall health problems

If you’ve tried changing your diet and practicing better oral hygiene to no avail, schedule a regular dental cleaning and exam appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.

5.    Tooth sensitivity

Do hot and cold substances make you wince because of tooth sensitivity? Some people are born with thinner enamel, but many times this is caused by gum recession and worn-down enamel.

Dentists often recommend using a toothpaste for sensitive teeth, switching to a soft-bristled toothbrush, and ensuring that the patient isn’t brushing too harshly. Additionally, the general dentist may suggest a fluoride gel treatment or prescription-grade toothpaste.

6.    Dental pain

Anytime you experience unusual dental pain for more than 24-hours, a trip to the dentist is necessary. Treating dental problems in the earliest stages is the best way to ensure the teeth and gums remain intact. Dental pain could indicate a cavity, gum disease, or several other oral health problems.

Contact Our Grant Park General Dentist

Are you experiencing any of these oral health issues? Our Grant Park dentist, Dr. Abbey J. Lee can help! Call our friendly dental team today at (404) 328-7177 to schedule an appointment.