Due to the demands of modern life, many people tend to put off their visits to the dentist. According to the NICDR, 12% of those aged 20 to 64 had not visited the dentist in the last five years. Dental problems often arise and are left unchecked due to inconsistent visits to the dentists. If you haven’t seen a dentist in a long time, below are signs that you need to visit a dental office immediately.
Persistent Headaches
Though most individuals do not equate headaches with dental issues, chronic headaches (particularly in the morning) might be caused by tooth grinding while sleeping. If this is the issue, your dentist can equip you with a mouthguard to assist relieve your headaches and protect your teeth from additional harm.
Bleeding After Brushing or Flossing
It is not normal to have blood on your toothbrush or in your sink. It might indicate that you have periodontal disease, an infection of the tissues that keep your teeth in place. Gum disease, if left untreated, can cause bone loss around the teeth and finally tooth loss. Other symptoms include red, puffy, or sore gums, as well as discharge between teeth and gums.
Swollen Gums
Gum disease is generally indicated by inflamed, aching gums. If you notice the signs of this disease, you should see your dentist right away. Delayed treatment might lead to more serious complications, such as tooth loss. If you seek treatment early, the condition can be managed without the need for extensive surgery.