Dental problems range from annoying to severe, but one thing is for certain: If you have tooth pain or unsightly teeth, these issues won’t improve without intervention from your Johns Creek dentist. There is nothing to be ashamed of if you have a dental concern. Pain or discomfort or discoloration don’t automatically mean that you haven’t been doing a good job of taking care of your teeth. Even if it has been a while since you’ve visited your dentist, now is a good time to start again. There is always a solution for oral health concerns.
Here are just seven reasons to see your Johns Creek area dentist:
- Pain or swelling. A toothache, sensitivity, pain, or swelling can all be signs of an underlying oral health problem. These symptoms can appear in your gums, mouth, face, or neck. A dental exam will identify what’s going on so you can get attention for your oral health problems quickly. If you suspect a dental emergency, contact your dentist immediately.
- Bleeding gums. Gingivitis is the earliest form of gum disease. And gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Addressing bleeding or puffy gums immediately can curb the progress of periodontal disease before the tissue and bone that support your teeth is destroyed.
- Dry mouth. A dry mouth is often a side effect of an illness or medication. If your mouth is not producing enough saliva, for whatever reason, that means your teeth are not being naturally washed and bacteria and food particles stick around far too long in between brushings. This can lead to tooth decay, cavities, and other oral health problems.
- Embarrassment. There are plenty of adults who avoid smiling because they are embarrassed or self-conscious about the condition of their teeth. Your Johns Creek dentist will help you determine what cosmetic dentistry or restorative dentistry options are the best choices for getting you smile you want, from teeth whitening to porcelain crowns, porcelain veneers to dental implants.
- Pregnancy. It’s especially important to keep up with your oral health in pregnancy. Hormone shifts and changes in eating habits or brushing rituals can lead to pregnancy-related gingivitis or an increase in tooth decay. While major dental work and x-rays will have to wait until after baby is born, don’t neglect your check-ups and dental cleanings to keep your mouth and teeth healthy.
- Chronic medical issues. If you are suffering with an ongoing illness, the last thing you may want to do is fit in another appointment. However, seeing your dentist can help prevent oral health issues from complicating your life. Chronic illnesses can affect your oral health and make you more prone to developing dental problems.
- Jaw pain. Grinding and clenching your teeth can cause jaw pain. So can a problem with your TMJ. If you wake up with a sore mouth, are experiencing gum recession, hear pops in your jaw, feel pain when you open or close your mouth, or have pain when chewing, these are all signs of an uneven bite. A mouth guard or Invisalign can get you aligned.
Regular dental check-ups are an essential part of your overall health and wellness. Not only can dental problems affect your well-being, but your mouth can be a sign of something that’s going wrong somewhere else in your body.
Your Johns Creek dentist is an essential health resources. Schedule your dental cleaning or consultation today to stay on the path of good oral health.