Our patients know to visit Pure Dental every six months for a checkup and cleaning. However, if you experience any of these symptoms you should consider scheduling an immediate appointment.
- LOOSE TEETH
This can be an indication of gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums caused by bacteria. Left untreated, it can advance into periodontitis (which can later cause damage to the jawbone) and place your teeth in jeopardy. - TEMPERATURE SENSITIVITY
A reaction to hot or cold foods may be a sign of tooth decay, a loose filling or an exposed root surface resulting from gum recession. It can also indicate a crack in a tooth’s enamel. - BLEEDING GUMS
Seeing blood after brushing or flossing could be a sign of an infection. Seek treatment before it develops into gum disease. - SORES, BUMPS & LUMPS
Should you notice an unusual lesion or mass that lingers and does not seem to heal, it may be a sign of oral cancer. Your regular check-up will include a screening, but you shouldn’t wait for that if you have an area of concern. - CHRONIC BAD BREATH
The things we eat and drink can occasionally cause bad breath. However, if you find yourself with persistent halitosis, this could be an indicator of gum disease. - DRY MOUTH
There is a host of different causes for mouth dryness. From dehydration, allergies to side effects from prescription medication can cause dry mouth. It can, however, also be a sign of a more serious condition. - CRACKING OR CRUMBLING TEETH
Disintegrating teeth are typically a consequence of stomach acid dissolving enamel. This is more common in the elderly, but can occur in anyone and is usually a sign of damage to the esophagus. - BLEEDING GUMS
No amount of bleeding is normal. If you’ve been ignoring even a small amount of bleeding when you brush or floss, it’s time to call your dentist. Bleeding can be a sign of gum disease, which is the infection of the bones and gums that surround our teeth. Gum disease left untreated can lead to bone and tooth loss. - A CLICKING OR POPPING JAW
This may be a sign of an issue with your jaw. Your temporomandibular joint (commonly referred to as TMJ) could be having an issue. Problems can be a result of an injury or by teeth grinding. It can be painful and may interfere with being able to eat comfortably. There are solutions to help with jaw pain, clicking, or popping which may include having a bite splint made for you by your dentist. - A DENTAL ABSCESS
An abscess is usually located on the side of your gum. It is a swelling filled with pus. It can be the sign of an infection and it will not heal fully on its own. You should see your dentist immediately for treatment if you suspect you have an abscess or any sign of infection or swelling in your mouth. - EXCESSIVE SNORING
This could be a sign of sleep apnea, a sleep disorder in which a person can stop and start breathing repeatedly during sleep. If you have sleep apnea an oral appliance may be the solution for you.
