Skipping dentist visits? You’re not alone. Many adults put off dental checkups because of busy schedules or simply thinking they don’t need them. But regular visits aren’t just about keeping your teeth clean—they help prevent serious health issues like gum disease, infections, and even heart problems.
Even if you brush and floss daily, some dental problems don’t show up until they become serious. So, how do you know when it’s time to see a dentist? Here are six signs you shouldn’t ignore.
1. Bleeding, Swollen, or Red Gums
If your gums bleed when you brush your teeth, you may have gingivitis or early-stage gum disease. A periodontist can recommend you undergo scaling to prevent bacteria accumulation and tartar build-up. If gingivitis is not treated, it can progress to periodontitis, a late-stage gum disease. This can result in loose teeth and even a shift in the bite.
2. Swelling in Your Face or Cheeks
A swollen cheek or jaw isn’t just uncomfortable—it could be a sign of an infection, like a dental abscess. Abscesses happen when bacteria enter the tooth and spread to the surrounding tissues, creating a pocket of pus.
If the infection isn’t treated, it can spread beyond your mouth, affecting other parts of your body. Symptoms of an abscess include:
- Persistent tooth pain
- Swelling in the face or neck
- A bad taste in your mouth
- Fever or general discomfort
Dental abscesses won’t go away on their own. If you have swelling in your face or jaw, see a dentist immediately.
3. Tooth Pain That Won’t Go Away
A mild toothache might be annoying, but a persistent or severe one is a red flag. Tooth pain can be caused by:
- Cavities
- Infections
- Cracked or broken teeth
- Gum disease
Pain when chewing or sensitivity to hot and cold foods could mean there’s damage deep inside the tooth. Ignoring the pain won’t make it go away—it’ll only get worse. If over-the-counter pain relievers aren’t helping, it’s time to see a dentist.
4. Sores in Your Mouth
Sores in your mouth can be caused by a variety of factors. Canker and cold sores heal on their own, but some sores may be more dangerous. They may indicate a hazardous illness or possibly oral cancer.
It's a good idea to consult a dentist if you notice any new sores in your mouth. Even though these sores are harmless, your dentist can provide you with peace of mind and assist you in identifying these sores so you don't have to arrange an appointment the following time.
5. A Chipped or Broken Tooth
Teeth can break for all kinds of reasons—chewing on something hard, an accident, or even grinding your teeth at night.
If you chip or break a tooth:
- Rinse your mouth with warm water
- Use a cold compress to reduce swelling
- Avoid chewing on the affected side
- Get to a dentist as soon as possible
Even if it doesn’t hurt, a broken tooth can become a bigger problem. It’s more likely to get infected or decay, so don’t wait to get it checked out.
6. Constant Dry Mouth
Saliva keeps a healthy mouth moist, avoiding tooth decay by neutralizing acids created by bacteria and washing away food particles when you chew. Dry mouth can be caused by disease, pharmaceutical side effects, age, smoking, and alcohol consumption.
Dry mouth, if left untreated, can lead to additional issues, such as an increased risk of gum disease and tooth decay. Consult your dentist about treatment options if you have unusual or persistent dry mouth.
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