Most dentists recommend coming in twice a year for routine exams and cleanings. Outside these visits, though, how can you tell when you should come in for an appointment? Understanding the signs you need professional care is crucial to protect your oral health, so keep an eye out for the warning signs below.

How to Tell When You Need a Trip to the Dentist

1. Tooth Pain or Sensitivity

A toothache or sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks is often indicative of an ongoing problem that requires care. Issues such as cavities, cracks or chips, exposed nerve roots, abscessed teeth, or gum infections can all cause these types of issues, and all of them warrant immediate attention.

2. Bleeding When Brushing or Flossing

If you often bleed while brushing or flossing, you might be at risk of periodontal disease. This serious gum issue is a chronic inflammatory condition that can have significant consequences, such as tooth loss, heart disease, respiratory illness, and diabetes. In this case, a trip to the dentist is necessary. During your appointment, they will scale and clean your teeth and may use an antibiotic solution to get rid of any existing bacteria in the pockets of the gums.

3. Dental Work Problems

If you previously invested in dentures, veneers, or bridges only to find they no longer fit the way they used to, you may want to have your dentist take a closer look at it. Wearing ill-fitting dental appliances could make everyday tasks like eating or drinking painful. If the appliances are too tight, the sensitive tissues in the gums or cheeks could become sore and/or irritated.

If you need immediate dental care, contact the professionals at Tohill Dentistry in Somerset, KY. This office has years of experience providing top-quality service at a family-owned business. Call (606) 679-4450 to schedule an appointment, and visit their website to learn more about their services.