5 Reasons To See Your Dentist Today
Many people only see their dentist twice each year, and there is nothing inherently wrong with this schedule. However, if you’re encountering problems or have concerns, you should see the team at Monroe Family Dentistry right away. So, what are good, specific reasons for a dental visit?
Here is a list of 5 excellent reasons to see your dentist without delay.
1. It’s been a while since your last visit.
The “magic” interval for dental visits is six months. While some patients need more frequent visits, you should never go more than six months between evaluations. Adhering to this schedule and getting your professional cleanings help to prevent a myriad of oral health issues, from tooth decay to gum disease.
Furthermore, regular dental appointments assist in identifying nascent problems before they turn into painful, costly, and potentially health-threatening issues. Dental and periodontal (gum) disease can damage not only your teeth and gums but also your overall health. Oral pathologies may increase your risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and other serious illnesses. By getting the preventative dental care you need, you reduce your chance of developing these diseases.
Cost is also a consideration in dental care. If you have regular cleanings, you’ll have a better likelihood of catching problems before the need for more extensive and costly treatments arise. For example, a simple filling may take care of early tooth decay, whereas severe decay could require more invasive treatment or even cause you to lose a tooth.
2. You have a worn crown.
A crown can make a decayed or damaged tooth look great, but the function of a crown is far more than just aesthetic. A crown covers your tooth, protecting and reinforcing it. Crowns are among the most common dental restorations and are often an effective way to help preserve your natural teeth.
Crowns can easily last for many years, but they are not indestructible. Over time, a crown can become worn down or even come loose. If you notice this happening with one of your crowns, don’t wait until your next biannual appointment. Contact Monroe Family Dentistry now, and Dr. Monroe will get you set up with a new, great-looking crown.
3. Your dentures no longer fit.
Dentures are a useful and cost-effective method of teeth replacement, but dentures should also be comfortable. If your dentures painfully rub areas of your mouth, feel loose, or slip, then there is a problem. These issues are a sign that your dentures need repair or replacement.
Of course, your dentures may break or warp over time. However, another potential problem is that your oral tissues may change, leaving your dentures with a less-than-perfect fit. Ill-fitting dentures are uncomfortable and can cause you to restrict your diet, foregoing certain foods like corn on the cob, for example. Furthermore, dentures that don’t fit well may contribute to bone loss in your jaw.
For these reasons, it’s important that you visit our office if your dentures fit poorly or feel “off.” You should also come in at least once a year, so Dr. Monroe can evaluate your dentures, your mouth, and your denture fit, even if you’re not encountering any issues.
4. You’re less than satisfied with the look of your smile.
It’s natural to want to look your best, and your smile is one of the first features that others notice about you. Unfortunately, very few people have an amazing-looking smile without a little help.
The cosmetic dental treatments that we offer can resolve the most common aesthetic complaints. For example, our teeth whitening treatment will take years off the appearance of your teeth. With more effective whitening products than those available over the counter, we can get your teeth noticeably brighter and whiter. A brilliant smile is attractive and can also give you more self-confidence.
If you have multiple cosmetic issues, porcelain veneers may be the answer you’ve been searching for. Veneers cover the visible surfaces of your teeth and can correct gaps, chips, uneven teeth, and more. In essence, porcelain veneers provide your smile with a makeover.
Teeth whitening and veneers are just two of our many cosmetic dental treatments. Talk with our team if you have any concerns about the appearance of your teeth. We’re happy to help.
5. You notice a problem.
Dental problems often announce themselves with symptoms like pain, bleeding, swelling gums, or sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures. Don’t ignore these warning signs. Rather than hoping the problem will go away, more reasons to see your dentist, call our office.
Prompt treatment of dental issues can lead to better outcomes. Addressing a problem before it becomes serious is the smart course of action. So, make an appointment immediately if you notice any of these problems:
- An unexpectedly loose tooth
- Bleeding in your mouth
- Sore or swollen gums
- A chipped tooth
- A loose restoration, such as a crown or bridge
- Teeth sensitivity
- Toothache
- Oral abscess or pus
Shouldn’t you set aside some time to care for your oral health? Contact Monroe Family Dentistry now to make your appointment.