Tooth pain or problems rarely show up overnight, so even if you don't notice tooth pain or obvious symptoms, regular check-ups are important. We can see if there are any small signs of tooth problems.
By identifying issues in their early stages, we can help preserve your teeth, stop the pain, and reduce the need for more extensive procedures down the line. Leaving a toothache or other dental pain untreated can eventually affect your gums or the deeper layer of your teeth.
Don't Overlook These Symptoms
Your body often presents early warning signs that something is wrong with your teeth and oral health. Ignoring these warning signs can lead to more serious dental issues. That's why we are here to help educate you about some warning signs.
Headaches or Jaw Pain
Frequent jaw pain or headaches may indicate bruxism (grinding teeth) or TMD (temporomandibular disorder). If you wake up with a sore jaw, you may be grinding your teeth at night, which over time can wear down your teeth, cause significant damage, and contribute to headaches and jaw pain.
Chronic or Persistent Bad Breath
Halitosis, commonly known as bad breath, can be dismissed as a strong food odor; when it becomes persistent, it could be a sign of poor oral health. This could be a sign of gum disease, dry mouth, tonsil stones, or decay. All of which can allow bacteria and plaque to build up, which causes a bad odor.
Metallic Taste in Mouth
A lingering metallic taste in your mouth can be a sign of major dental issues. Conditions such as gingivitis or periodontitis are gum diseases that can cause bleeding gums and a metallic taste in your mouth, and leaky fillings can break down and release a metallic taste as well. In some cases, it can be a sign of an oral infection, which may lead to a change in taste.
Tooth Sensitivity
Sensitivity to cold or hot foods and drinks can occur occasionally, but when it becomes persistent, that is when you should heed the warning signs. This could be due to exposed dentin, where gum erosion or gum recession exposes dentin, leading to sensitivity, along with tooth decay. This can cause cavities, creating pain when exposed to different temperatures.
When You Should Schedule an Appointment
It is important to schedule an appointment when you have small signs to prevent bigger problems in the future. If you are experiencing symptoms such as bleeding gums, tooth sensitivity, constant headache, jaw pain, or chronic bad breath, it might be time to see a dentist.
At Antelope Creek Family Dentistry in Lincoln, New England, we are here to help protect your oral health. Give us a call or stop by to book your next appointment.