5 Signs You Need To See A Dentist
Regular Dental Visits: Your First Line of Defense
Don't Skip the Dentist
Thinking it’s unnecessary to have a regular dentist might seem logical until you realize the foundation of dental health is prevention and maintenance. Waiting for pain or discomfort before visiting a dentist is like waiting for your car to break down before servicing it. Regular check-ups and a trusted dental team are crucial for maintaining oral health. Despite our best efforts, cavities can still occur due to genetics, tooth anatomy, or difficult-to-clean areas. Catching these issues early, when they’re small and painless, saves time and money.
The Misconception About Crowned Teeth
Crowns and Bridges Aren't Invincible
A common myth is that crowns or bridges render your teeth “fake” and immune to cavities. This isn’t true. The natural tooth structure remains beneath the crown or bridge, still vulnerable to decay and periodontal disease. Care for these teeth as you would your natural teeth—brush, floss, and don’t neglect regular dental visits to prevent problems before they start.
Dealing with Bad Breath
It's More Than Just Unpleasant
Persistent bad breath often points to underlying issues like bacteria buildup, plaque, or periodontal disease. It’s not just the surface plaque that smells; deeper problems could be at play. Regular dental cleanings and reevaluating your oral hygiene routine can combat bad breath. Neglecting this can lead to more severe issues such as bone loss or tooth decay.
Aches and Pains in the Mouth
Don't Ignore Ongoing Discomfort
Ongoing aches in your mouth, gums, or jaw signal something’s wrong. Nighttime teeth grinding, large cavities, or something as simple as a popcorn husk stuck under your gums can cause significant discomfort. Visiting a dentist promptly can prevent the situation from worsening.
Sharp Pain Triggers
Address Pain Early
Experiencing sharp pain from specific actions is a clear sign of dental issues, such as fractures or gum recession. Early dental intervention can prevent these problems from escalating. Delaying treatment only leads to more complex issues.
Major Health Changes and Dental Health
Your Overall Health Affects Your Mouth
Major health changes, like pregnancy or starting new medications, can significantly impact dental health. Conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or Sjogren’s Syndrome necessitate extra dental care. Discuss any health changes with your dentist to tailor your dental care routine accordingly.
American Dental Association (ADA)
Your source for facts on oral health and dental care.
Canadian Dental Association (CDA)
Offers comprehensive resources on dental services in Canada.
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Professional Teeth Whitening vs. Home Remedies
Brighten Your Smile: Choosing Between Professional Teeth Whitening and Home Remedies
Teeth whitening improves your smile by removing discoloration with various products and procedures. Its popularity stems from significant smile enhancements.
Professional Teeth Whitening Explained
Dentists supervise professional whitening, using gels for in-office treatments. These custom treatments use stronger gels for quicker results and include take-home trays for maintenance. Despite potential sensitivity, professional options offer long-term aesthetics and durability. The familiar Zoom whitening uses heat to accelerate results, although it may increase sensitivity.
Mouthguards for Children’s Sports
Mouthguards do more than protect your child’s teeth. A good mouthguard that has been properly fitted actually redistributes the force of an impact. This redistribution reduces the damage done to soft tissues like the gums and cheeks. There is even some evidence that wearing a mouthguard can help prevent head injuries, or at least reduce their severity.
