If you’re afraid of the dentist, you certainly aren’t alone. Over 60% of Americans admit to suffering from dental fear. Pain, chemicals, and the sound of a drill can be the biggest contributors to this fear—but sometimes, staying away from the dentist can be far worse than facing these terrors.
In some concerning situations, it’s better to seek out professional help than it is to avoid discomfort. If you’re not sure how to tell when it’s time to get help, here’s what you should know about when to visit the dentist.
1. Tooth Pain
This is often the most obvious reason for a dental check-up, and for some, it’s one of the few things that can make them seek professional help! A dentist can help identify and treat the source of your pain, no matter what it is.
Common dental problems leading to tooth pain include cavities or tooth decay, fractures, failed fillings, gum inflammation, or tooth grinding.
2. Tooth Sensitivity
In addition to tooth pain, you should also consider seeking a dentist if you feel pain or sensitivity when eating hot or cold foods, even if this sensation comes and goes.
Our teeth only become sensitive to temperature once their enamel, the protective covering, wears down. When this happens, our teeth and nerves are less protected from damage, which is why they become sensitive to heat or cold. Talking to a dentist can help take care of the issue before it spirals out of control.
3. A Cracked, Chipped, or Broken Tooth
While this may not be one of the most common tooth problems, significant tooth damage should be an indication that it’s time to get help. Even strong teeth can fracture or break after an accident.
When one of your teeth gets damaged, it’s important to visit a dentist right away. This gives you the best chance of saving the tooth without further complication/
4. Swollen or Bloody Gums
Teeth may be the most notable concern when it comes to oral health, but the gums can be just as important. If you don’t remove bacteria from your mouth with proper dental care, it can lead to gum inflammation or even bleeding gums. Work with your dentist to make sure your gum issues don’t degrade into something that could cause lasting harm to your teeth.
5. Jaw Pain or Headaches
Teeth grinding can be a difficult issue to deal with, especially when it happens at night, as you may not even realize you’re doing it. Jaw pain or headaches can be signs of this tooth grinding, also called bruxism. These concerns may seem minor, but the end result can be lasting degradation of the enamel on your teeth.
While you can manage your symptoms on your own in mild cases, you may need to ask your dentist for a mouthguard to protect your teeth from wear and tear.
Know When to Visit the Dentist
Whether you’re afraid of unpleasant visits or you’re avoiding an inconvenient appointment, it’s best to know when to visit the dentist, no matter what. In the situations above, reaching out for professional help beats long-term pain or complications, so don’t hesitate to reach out to an expert in your area. They’re there to help!
For more of the essential tips you need to know in life, check out our other posts.
