See a Dentist if You Have Any of These Signs or Questions

Avoiding a sharp pain in your tooth or ignoring bleeding gums can lead to more serious problems; visit a dentist before that happens. Don’t allow your busy life to get in the way of your health. Oral hygiene is much more important than people realize. Visiting a dentist bi-annually can help you continue to live a healthy life without any of the inconveniences that come with needing oral surgery or serious procedures. Here are a few common symptoms that could mean you should visit our office immediately.  

Q: Why are my gums swollen?

A: Inflammation and discomfort in your gums may mean that you have gingivitis, or worse, periodontal disease. If you have any other symptoms, we recommend that you have a dentist check them out. More likely, if you have recently started flossing more regularly, your gums could just be irritated. Try giving them a few days to become more accustomed to it instead of diving right in with flossing daily, or ask us how to floss correctly.

Q: Why does my breath always stink?

A: Stinky breath can be a sign of poor oral hygiene. Make sure you are brushing at least twice a day, floss and use mouthwash. If you are certain your bad breath isn’t due to ineffective oral hygiene, you could have gingivitis. Call our dentist office so that we can check your gums and teeth before you risk a worse infection.

Q: My neck and face have had painful swelling in them lately. Why?

A: Pain and swelling in your mouth, on your neck, or around your face can be a sign of a serious infection. Swollen lymph nodes notifying you of infection in your teeth or gums can cause discomfort.

Q: Why do I get a sharp pain in my tooth when I chew gum?

A: Tooth sensitivity and discomfort, especially when chewing on a sticky substance, can mean you have a loose filling. It could also mean that you have a cavity. In either case, you need to see a dentist to have your filling replaced or your cavity filled. Don’t let a problem like this linger since you should always do your best to save your natural teeth.

Q: Why does my jaw pop when I open my mouth?

A: If you have a ‘popping’ sound or feeling in your jaw, you could have an infection. If it has been going on for years, you could also have an uneven bite. We can treat an infection before it spreads. However, if it is an uneven bite, orthodontics can be used to improve it. Either way, visit our dental office to have this uncomfortable problem resolved.

Many of these signs and other symptoms can lead to serious conditions. You want to avoid any unnecessary stress or discomfort in your teeth. Taking care of your natural teeth is one of the most important things you can do for your overall health so if you have any of these signs or other concerns, call our dentist office and schedule an appointment.