Aches, pains, and sore gums — everybody has some oral discomfort every now and then. But it’s hard to tell when nagging symptoms cross over into something more serious.
If you’re feeling pain or discomfort, you might be wondering: Do I need to see a dentist?
Even a problem that seems small can quickly turn into something bigger if left untreated. Here are a few signs that you should seek dental treatment right away.
1. Your Tooth is Loose or Knocked Out
As an adult, you might not worry too much about loose teeth. But teeth can get loosened, knocked out, or cracked from all kinds of injuries.
If you notice any kind of damage, you should get to the dentist as soon as possible. Even a tiny crack can turn into a much larger problem.
For a tooth that’s fallen out, try to put it in milk to preserve it. The quicker you can get to the best dentist near you, the better chance they’ll have of replanting it.
2. You Have a Serious Toothache
When you have a toothache, the pain can be hard to ignore.
Some at-home dental treatments like a saltwater rinse or an ice pack can help with minor toothaches. But if the pain is severe or things don’t improve, you should still have a dentist look into what could be causing the ache. The only way to get lasting toothache relief is to get the root of the issue as soon as possible.
3. Your Gums Are Bleeding
While seeing your gums bleed after you brush or floss isn’t necessarily normal, it isn’t always a cause for concern. In some cases, it can just mean that you haven’t been flossing enough. But if the bleeding is excessive or keeps coming back, this can be a cause for concern.
Bleeding is one of the symptoms of gingivitis, or gum disease. Catching gingivitis early is critical to treating your symptoms and restoring your teeth to their healthy state — saving your smile.
4. Your Jaw or Mouth Are Swollen
Swelling in your jaw or mouth can be a sign of infection, and a potentially life-threatening one.
You might notice swollen gums, cheeks, jaw, or even your lymph nodes. Take note of how long you’ve been feeling the swelling, where it’s located, and any other potential symptoms, like redness or fever.
5. Your Tooth Feels Numb
If you had a toothache and didn’t seek treatment, but now your tooth is feeling numb, this could mean it’s time to see a dentist specialist near you.
A numb feeling in the tooth can be a sign that a tooth infection is spreading to the root. It might also be a sign of a tooth abscess spreading to the nerves. Either way, it’s a sign to go seek treatment right away.
Know When to Seek Dental Treatment
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t wait. Whether it’s a minor ache or serious pain, it might be time to seek immediate dental treatment.
Need treatment but don’t know where to turn? Looking for the best new dentist to take care of your oral health? Our directory is designed to guide patients towards the best dental care in their immediate area. Let the denTEL guide help you find a dentist near you.
