While a large part of the population is very good at making a regular dental appointment, things in your mouth can change between scheduled visits. Waiting to talk to a dentist for too long can make a relatively small dental health issue a much bigger problem, so early diagnosis and treatment is always important.
Knowing when to schedule an emergency or immediate appointment with your dental practice in Birmingham, MI is important. Obviously, if you have lost a tooth or have been in any type of accident or had any type of trauma that caused injury to the teeth, gums or jaw scheduling an appointment to get everything checked will be a priority.
There are also other signs that should never be ignored. If you have any of these symptoms, call and schedule an appointment with your dentist. They are not necessarily emergencies, but they can result in more significant issues if not treated immediately.
Gum Problems
Gums that are red, swollen or painful are typically a sign of advanced gingivitis or even the more problematic condition known as periodontitis. Without treatment this can result in infections down into the gums, causing loose teeth and even early tooth loss.
Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing are also a concern as are sores on the gums and an unpleasant taste it the mouth that can indicate infection or bacterial growth.
Tooth Sensitivity
Teeth that are suddenly very sensitive to hot and cold foods and drinks can be a sign of serious dental health problems. Often the first signs of dental decay is temperature sensitivity. This is often with both hot and cold foods, but it may be more problematic with one or the other.
Simply using a toothpaste designed to limit sensitivity will not correct the problem and may actually make it worse if you don’t seek early dental care.
Changes in Tooth Color
Sudden or rapid discoloration of the teeth can be a symptom of a variety of issues. This may include tooth decay, particularly with white spots on the teeth, but any signs of yellowing, brown colors or black or gray areas on the teeth are also reasons for concern.
Of course, any sudden pain in the teeth, gums or even the jaw should be a reason to book an appointment with your Birmingham, MI dental practice. Getting it checked quickly can both alleviate the pain as well as address the underlying cause to limit any damage that can occur by delaying treatment.
