There’s no surer route to big oral health issues than ignoring small oral health issues. This is why we remind all of our patients that, as vital as routine cleanings and exams are, preventive dental care begins at home.
Preventive dentistry begins during your at-home oral hygiene routine when you start feeling something a little funky or, worse, something that is downright painful. While not every twinge of discomfort is an emergency demanding immediate care, certain symptoms are unmistakable signs that an emergency trip to the dentist is on order.
1. Severe and Unrelenting Pain
Occasional mild dental discomfort is normal, such as something lodged in your gums (which you remove) or sensitivity to cold air or ice. Sharp, throbbing, lingering pain is not normal. This often indicates an underlying issue, like an infection, that could spread or even threaten your teeth if neglected.
2. Enflamed or Bleeding Gums
Healthy gums do not swell or bleed during normal brushing and flossing. If a person’s gums frequently bleed, swell, or become tender to the touch, it may signal gum disease. Left untreated, gum disease can also lead to serious infection, resulting in tooth loss or other health complications.
3. Shifting or Loose Adult Teeth
Permanent teeth should never feel loose or shift unexpectedly. If you notice a change in how your teeth fit together, it could indicate serious damage from advanced gum disease, bone loss, or trauma. Seeking immediate help is crucial to preventing serious long-term damage.
4. Chronic Bad Breath
Persistent bad breath or a lasting bad taste in your mouth can be more than just a nuisance. These symptoms may indicate an infection or untreated decay. If brushing and mouthwash don’t alleviate these issues, a dentist can identify the cause and suggest suitable corrective treatment.
5. Oral Sores or Spots
White patches, sores, or lumps in the mouth that don’t heal within a couple of weeks can be signs of an infection or even oral cancer. In these cases, early detection and treatment are key to a full and speedy recovery.
If you notice any of these warning signs, don’t delay—make an appointment with your dentist as soon as you can!
Efficient and Empathetic Emergency Dentistry in Vallejo, CA
If you're experiencing a dental emergency and need a caring and experienced dental practice in Vallejo to provide immediate and lasting relief—or if you just like to be prepared—contact Dr. Morgan Nordstrom, D.D.S., and our outstanding team to schedule an appointment.