How do you know if there is something wrong with your teeth?

Even though tooth decay and cavities can seem to develop out of nowhere, our bodies typically have means of alerting us when anything is amiss. Rarely does someone suddenly awaken with a fractured tooth or aching gums. You are responsible for recognizing the warning signs and acting before it is too late. Additionally, regular dental check-ups with Poff Dental Associates can easily detect most dental issues before they become serious.

Routine Dental Care

A routine visit to the dentist can prevent most dental issues, yet many people only visit the dentist when experiencing symptoms. While basic oral health standards suggest visiting a dentist every six months, the American Dental Association (ADA) encourages regular dental appointments at intervals established by a dentist. Regular dental care makes it simpler for the dentist to detect and treat any oral difficulties the patient may already be experiencing before it is too late.

What are the Benefits of Maintaining Your Oral Health?

Some immediate advantages of maintaining good oral hygiene are:

• Fresh breath
• Healthy gums
• Prevention of tooth sensitivity and gum disease.
• Minimizes the possibility of cavities and root canals
• Saving you discomfort, time, and money

Here are also some long-term advantages of maintaining good oral health:

• Prevent tooth loss: Tartar buildup causes tooth decay and, eventually, tooth loss.
• Safer pregnancy: Gum disease is linked to problems during pregnancy, such as low birth weights and early deliveries.
• Decreased cancer risk: Oral bacteria may promote the formation of cancer cells in your body.
• Lower chances of diabetes:Gum disease creates inflammation, which makes insulin resistance in your body, raising your risk of diabetes.
• Reduced risk for heart attack: If the oral bacterial infection spreads to your bloodstream, it could stiffen your arteries and cause a heart attack.

What Symptoms Should You Look Out For?

Sometimes unanticipated problems can make it necessary to visit your dentist. If you have any of the following symptoms, visit your dentist, even if your regular dental visits are months away, to prevent oral health problems from progressing:

• Persistent Bad Breath: Even while occasional episodes of bad breath are common, chronic bad breath (halitosis) can indicate gum disease, oral cancer, dry mouth, cavities, and bacteria.
• White Tongue: The color of your tongue can be temporarily altered by what you eat. But if your tongue typically appears white and coated, it could indicate bacteria buildup.
• Bleeding or Sore Gums After Brushing or Flossing: Bleeding may occur if you brush or floss too vigorously or have not flossed in a while. However, having gums that bleed even with light touch could be a sign of gum disease.
• Loose Teeth: A small movement or expanding gaps could indicate an infection or bone loss. Adjustments to the fit of your partial dentures or changes in how your teeth fit together when you bite can also indicate loose teeth.
• Teeth Discoloration: There could be a nerve issue when a tooth appears darker than the nearby teeth. If a tooth is damaged and the nerve cannot withstand the blow, the tooth might become necrotic and darken over time.
• Pain or Discomfort: Jaw pain or popping and clicking of the jaw could signify sinus issues, toothaches, teeth grinding, gingivitis, or problems with your temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
• Sensitivity with Certain Food or Drinks: If hot or cold drinks and food cause pain, you may have sensitive teeth. It may result from tooth decay, broken teeth, worn fillings, gum disease, tooth enamel, or an exposed tooth root due to gum recession.

Schedule Your Next Routine Checkup at Poff Dental Associates

Poor oral hygiene can result in issues ranging from severe gum disease to cavities and oral cancer. However, you can avoid most dental issues with frequent checkups and early detection of symptoms by visiting our dental professionals. Schedule an appointment with Poff Dental Associates if you suspect any symptoms discussed or need treatment options. We provide exceptional services to our patients in areas of Nashville, Tennessee. Dr. Poff can effectively examine your mouth and find solutions to your problem.