There are numerous reasons to see a family dentist. This dental professional provides a variety of services that prevent and treat dental issues. If problems with the gums or teeth go untreated, they can quickly lead to bigger issues that can even affect the entire body. Visiting a dentist when symptoms first appear is always a smart decision.
When to see a family dentist
A family dentist can see older children and adults in one convenient setting. The dentist has the education and training to treat a wide variety of concerns. Many of these should be treated as soon as possible.
Every six months
It is highly recommended that most people visit the dentist twice a year for a professional cleaning and dental exam. The cleaning gets rid of tartar and plaque that regular at-home oral hygiene cannot tackle, and this helps prevent decay and infection.
The exam also helps the dentist diagnose potential problems before symptoms even arise, which results in quick treatment. People who are at high risk of dental or gum disease may need to have preventive visits more frequently.
Routine checkups are important, even for those with excellent dental health. These regular visits can play an essential role in preventing or improving dental anxiety, especially in younger children. By visiting the dentist often at a young age, patients are more likely to feel more at ease when treatment is needed while also building good oral health habits.
Cold or hot sensitivity
One of the first signs of infection or decay is sensitivity to extreme temperatures. There are various reasons for sensitivity, such as a cavity, gum disease, or enamel erosion, and the family dentist can determine the issue and recommend the right treatment. They can also offer suggestions on how to ease discomfort, such as diet modification or using a different type of toothpaste. Whether the cause is minor or serious, sensitivity should not be ignored.
Toothache or pain
This is a common reason why people visit a dentist, but some think that the problem will go away and do not take any action. Achiness or pain in the tooth often indicates decay or infection, although it may also be present due to some sort of trauma. If a toothache is sudden, severe, or does not improve in a day or two, it should be evaluated by a dentist.
Swollen or bleeding gums
Gum disease is common, and if it is caught in the early stages, it can be treated before it causes irreversible damage. Some of the earlier signs include red and swollen gums as well as those that bleed with flossing or brushing.
Early treatment includes a deep cleaning to remove bacteria from underneath the gums. In more severe cases, antibiotics or dental laser treatment may be needed. If gum disease moves on to the later stages, it often leads to severe infection of the gums, gum recession, tooth root exposure, and loose teeth. If left untreated, this may result in tooth loss or extraction as well as surgery to treat the infection.
Visible damage
A fractured or chipped tooth makes it easy for bacteria to enter the tooth and cause decay which would potentially require a root canal to treat. There are numerous methods a dentist may use to fix these issues, and they should be taken care of as soon as possible.
If someone loses a tooth due to infection or an accident, the individual should contact a family dentist immediately. Prompt treatment may result in the tooth being successfully reinserted at the gum line. If the tooth cannot be saved, there are tooth replacement options. Either way, tooth loss should be treated right away. Otherwise, it can lead to numerous complications, such as:
- Dental or facial pain
- Alignment problems
- Digestive issues
- Speech difficulties
Keep in mind that any kind of dental trauma could also lead to bone fractures beneath the surface. These often require X-rays to diagnose and will often lead to a new treatment plan to promote fast and proper healing.
Conclusion
Whether someone is experiencing symptoms, or it is time for periodic cleaning, a family dentist can help. The services can not only improve the function of the mouth but also improve one's smile. No matter how minor a symptom may seem, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible to avoid complications. Symptom-free patients should still maintain routine appointments for better dental health.
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