Dental problems are never any fun, but the good news is most of them are easily prevented. Brushing twice a day, flossing, eating right, and having regular dental check-ups are essential steps to preventing dental problems.
Additionally, educating yourself about oral health problems and their causes can go a long way in prevention. Along with your regular bi-annual check-ups, there are several other reasons you might find yourself needing a dentist. Here are the top signs that something might be wrong and you need to get checked out.
1.) Pain or Sensitivity
Tooth pain and/or sensitivity can have a number of causes: a cavity, abscess, broken tooth, damaged filling or grinding your teeth. Whenever you’re in any kind of dental pain, your dentist can help you determine what’s causing it. Additionally, we can treat the underlying issue and help you to avoid future problems.
2.) Dry Mouth
A healthy mouth is well lubricated by saliva, which washes away food particles and helps you neutralize the acids produced by plaque. If your mouth feels unusually dry, it could be a sign of an illness. We can determine what’s causing your dry mouth and suggest ways to restore moisture and protect your teeth.
3.) Bleeding Gums
Blood on your toothbrush or in the sink isn’t normal. Bleeding gums may be a sign of poor dental hygiene and it could mean you’re developing gum disease. Also known as periodontal disease, it’s an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. Your gums become inflamed and bleed when there’s a buildup of plaque along the gum line. If left untreated, it can lead to bone loss around your teeth and eventually tooth loss. Other signs include red, swollen or tender gums, and/or discharge between your teeth and gums.
If your gums are bleeding, don’t put off care.
4.) You’re Embarrassed
An unattractive smile can make a big difference when it comes to your self-esteem. Luckily, with today’s technology, anyone can have a beautiful smile. Whether it’s teeth whitening, dental implants, or any other cosmetic dental work– Dr. Arnold would love to help you create the smile of your dreams.
5.) Spots and/or Sores
If you notice a mouth sore, lump, or a red or pale patch of skin on your tongue, cheek, or gums– keep an eye on it for a couple of weeks. If it doesn’t go away after 3 weeks, make an appointment as soon as possible. Spots or sores that don’t go away are signs of oral cancer and catching it early gives you a much better chance of recovery. That’s why we always do an oral cancer screening at your regular check-ups, even if you haven’t noticed any symptoms.
6.) Pregnancy
Did you know that when you’re pregnant you’re at a much higher risk for gum disease? It’s true. Even if you don’t have any symptoms that something is wrong, when you’re pregnant, dental checkups are even more important. This is because they can help to prevent problems from developing and treat any existing symptoms before they get worse.
7.) Bad Breath
Bad breath, also called halitosis, can be downright embarrassing. According to dental studies, about 85 percent of people who suffer from persistent bad breath have a dental condition that is to blame.
Gum disease, cavities, oral cancer, dry mouth, and bacteria on your tongue are just some of the dental problems that can cause bad breath. Using mouthwash to cover up bad breath will only mask the odor and not cure it. If you have chronic bad breath, visit us so we can rule out any of these problems.
Make an Appointment
If you’re suffering from any of these issues, or it has been over six months since your last dental appointment– you’re due! Call us at (859) 269-1000 to make an appointment, or schedule one online by clicking here.
Ever since he was little Dr. J. Fred Arnold wanted to be a dentist. He has lived in Kentucky all of his life, except for three years he spent serving in the Air Force (1984-1987). He and his wife Holly have raised their family here and couldn’t imagine spending life anywhere else. They love the great schools and the emphasis on arts and culture.