Signs You Need to See Your Dentist
Regular dental checkups can help you maintain good dental health and prevent more serious dental problems in the future. Dr. Bijan Afar DDS, Los Angeles dentist, recommends most patients visit every six months. However, sometimes you may need to schedule a dental appointment even if you are not yet due. Anything unusual or any change in your dental health is a reason to contact our dentist, but certain signs indicate immediate help may be necessary.
- Pain
Toothaches indicate that something is wrong with the tooth. Tooth pain can develop in response to different dental conditions, including a broken tooth or an infection, and it should be addressed promptly. If it is strong enough to wake you up in the night, it indicates emergency care may be necessary. - Bleeding
Many people assume that it is normal for gums to bleed a bit when teeth are brushed or flossed. It is not. Gums that bleed for a week or more after you begin a flossing regimen or bleeding for no apparent reason indicate a dental visit is necessary. - Swelling
Gums that look puffy or swollen need to be examined for gum disease. A checkup is also necessary if a knot or bump has developed above or near a tooth. This can indicate an abscess. - Sores
Any unexplained sores, patches, spots or discolorations that do not heal or clear up can indicate serious dental disease, such as oral cancer. - Chronic bad breath
Bad breath can indicate a number of dental health problems, including gum disease.
Here are some of the leading signs that may indicate that you need to see our Los Angeles dentist as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your teeth or gums.Preventative dentistry, including checkups every six months, can help catch dental diseases at their earliest stages before they develop painful symptoms. Contact our dentist today to schedule your next checkup.