Nobody plans for a dental problem, but they do happen. When they do, they can be worrisome. Dental problems can appear to come on suddenly, and many can be painful. However, several types of oral health conditions can often be prevented, or at least treated before they cause trouble, by seeing your dentist in Lompoc at least twice a year. If you’re in between dental visits, keep an eye out for some of the common signs of a dental problem.
What Are Some Symptoms That Require a Visit to the Dentist?
It’s important to know that any new discomfort or pain in the mouth is often a sign that something isn’t quite right. It’s also important to recognize that some symptoms could mean several different things. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms below, you should see your dentist in Lompoc as soon as possible for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.
Toothaches
The term toothache is commonly used as a way to describe pain in or around a tooth. This discomfort can be constant or can come in waves, especially when we eat or drink something hot or cold. Toothaches can also cause pain in the jaw, ear, cheeks, or forehead. Many different things can cause a toothache. Some of them include:
- Cavities
- Dental trauma such as a broken tooth
- Failing fillings
- Gum recession
- Abscess
- Jaw injury
- Gum disease
Bad Breath
Bad breath, also called halitosis, can happen to anyone, especially after a particularly fragrant meal. But chronic bad breath can sometimes be a sign or result of something more serious than a dish of garlicky pasta. Additionally, besides oral health concerns, bad breath can affect self-confidence and even cause anxiety. Unfortunately, gum, mints, and mouthwashes may only temporarily mask bad breath. Bad breath can result from:
- Tobacco use
- Dry mouth
- Some medications
- Poor dental hygiene
- GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)
- Certain cancers
- Infections in the mouth, nose, or sinuses
Sensitive Teeth
If you’ve ever experienced that uncomfortable, sudden surge of shooting pain through your teeth, chances are you have sensitive teeth. This sensitivity may not always be present, but it can increase with certain things such as eating or drinking something hot, cold, or sweet, or brushing your teeth. Sensitive teeth are often the result of enamel erosion when the tooth roots are exposed. But other things can cause sensitive teeth.
- Cavities
- Chipped or cracked tooth
- Gum disease
- Failing fillings
- Brushing too hard
- Teeth grinding
- Gum recession
Bleeding Gums
A common misconception is that it’s normal for gums to bleed, especially during a dental checkup. After all, your hygienist is poking and prodding at your gums. How can they not bleed? The truth is, healthy gums don’t bleed, even during a professional dental cleaning. Bleeding gums are often a sign of gum disease. Gum disease can be reversed if caught early, but if it’s not, it could lead to tooth loss. Make sure to see your dentist in Lompoc if you notice:
- Bleeding gums
- Red, swollen gums
- Bad breath
- Pain when you chew
- Painful chewing
- Loose teeth
- Sensitive teeth
Some of the best ways to prevent a dental problem from suddenly popping up include brushing and flossing your teeth every single day, eating a well-balanced diet, quitting using any type of tobacco product, and seeing your dentist twice a year. After all, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
