Dental work can be expensive. Preventative maintenance, however, can be invaluable in keeping small problems from growing bigger. If you experience any of these tell-tale signs that you need immediate dental care, get in touch with your dentist as soon as possible.

Bleeding Gums

Any type of gum damage could be an indication of gum disease, which is caused by plaque and tartar build-up on your teeth that can irritate and inflame your gums. Untreated gum disease can result in tooth loss. It is important to seek dental care right away if you notice any of these symptoms so that your dentist can determine the best course of treatment for you.

Tooth Pain

If you are experiencing dental pain, it can be a sign of an infection or another serious issue. Your dentist will be able to diagnose the cause of your pain and provide the appropriate treatment to relieve it. Depending on the type of tooth damage that you have, you may also need to take antibiotics or another type of prescription medication.

Chipped or Broken Teeth

If you have a chipped, cracked or broken tooth, it is important to see a dentist right away as this can lead to further damage and even infection if not treated promptly. Depending on the extent of the damage, your dentist may need to perform a dental filling or crown to repair the tooth. In more severe cases, you may need full dental surgery to repair the damage.

Unusual Sensitivity

If you find that your teeth are suddenly sensitive to hot and cold temperatures, this could be a sign of tooth decay or gum disease. Often, this can be a sure sign of damage before any other signs are immediately visible. If left untreated, these conditions can lead to serious oral health problems. Contact a local dentist like Mill Creek Dental to get assistance. They’ll be able to perform diagnostic tests to locate the cause.

Bumps or Sores

If you notice any changes in your mouth, such as bumps, sores or lesions, it can be a good idea to get it checked out to make sure that it is not indicative of dental problems. Sometimes additional tests, such as biopsies, may be necessary in order to determine the cause of the changes. Depending on the diagnosis, your dentist will recommend the best course of treatment to control damage and resolve underlying problems.

Always get in touch with a dentist as early as possible. Dentists can provide you with a thorough assessment of your dental health, reducing the risk of further dental issues in the future.