5 Red Flags That Warrant a Dental Visit

Maintaining good oral health is essential for overall well-being, but sometimes it can be challenging to know when an issue requires professional attention from our Greater Fort Lauderdale dentists. While regular teeth cleanings are vital, there are specific signs that should never be ignored. Identifying these red flags early can prevent minor issues from escalating into serious problems, potentially saving you from extensive and costly treatments.

Here are 5 signs that may mean an upcoming visit to our Plantation, FL, dental office is in order.

1. Unrelenting Tooth Pain

Tooth pain is one of the most common symptoms that drive people to seek dental care, and for a good reason. While occasional discomfort may result from temporary irritation or sensitivity, persistent or severe tooth pain often indicates a more serious issue. This pain could be a sign of:

• Tooth decay: When cavities penetrate deeper into the tooth, they can reach the nerve, causing significant pain.
• Infection or abscess: A bacterial infection can form at the root of the tooth, leading to intense pain and swelling.
• Cracked or fractured tooth: Even small cracks can lead to significant pain, especially when chewing.

Ignoring persistent tooth pain can result in the need for more invasive procedures such as root canal therapy or even tooth extraction. Seeking prompt treatment from our dentists can alleviate discomfort and preserve your oral health.

2. Bleeding Gums

Gums that bleed during brushing or flossing are not normal and often signal the onset of gum disease. Gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, is characterized by inflammation and bleeding gums. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form that can lead to tooth loss and damage to the jawbone.

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Other signs that may accompany bleeding gums include swelling, redness, and tenderness. Early intervention can reverse gingivitis, but advanced periodontal disease may require more intensive treatments such as scaling and root planing or even surgery. If your gums bleed regularly, it’s essential to see our dentists to assess the situation.

3. Loose or Shifting Teeth

Adult teeth should remain securely in place, so if you notice any teeth becoming loose or majorly shifting in position, it’s a clear sign of a problem. Loose teeth can be caused by:

• Gum disease: Advanced periodontal disease can weaken the bone structure that supports teeth, leading to looseness.
• Trauma: An injury to the mouth can dislodge teeth or cause them to become loose.
• Bone loss: Conditions such as osteoporosis can affect the density of the jawbone, leading to tooth mobility.

Addressing loose or shifting teeth promptly is crucial, as it may help avoid tooth loss and the need for restorative solutions such as dental implants or dental bridges.

4. Persistent Bad Breath or Unpleasant Taste

Everyone experiences bad breath occasionally, but if it’s persistent and doesn’t improve with brushing or mouthwash, it could indicate a more serious issue. Chronic bad breath or a constant unpleasant taste in the mouth may be a sign of:

• Gum disease: Bacteria in the gums can produce foul odors and tastes.
• Infection: An oral infection, such as a dental abscess, can cause persistent bad breath.
• Dry mouth: Reduced saliva flow can lead to an imbalance of bacteria, resulting in bad breath.

If you experience ongoing bad breath despite maintaining good oral hygiene, it’s important to have it evaluated by our dentists to rule out underlying conditions.

5. Jaw Pain or Clicking

Jaw pain, clicking, or difficulty chewing can indicate a problem with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), the hinge connecting your jaw to your skull. TMJ disorders can arise from a variety of causes, including:

• Teeth grinding (bruxism): Grinding or clenching your teeth, especially at night, can strain the jaw muscles and joints.
• Arthritis: Inflammation of the joints can affect the TMJ, leading to pain and stiffness.
• Injury: Trauma to the jaw can cause misalignment or damage to the TMJ.

If left untreated, TMJ disorders can lead to chronic pain and complications with eating and speaking. Our dentists can diagnose the issue and recommend appropriate treatment options, such as a mouthguard, physical therapy, or in severe cases, surgery.

Call If You Need Urgent Dental Care

Being aware of these red flags and responding promptly by visiting our emergency dentists serving Plantation and Greater Fort Lauderdale, FL, can make a significant difference in the health of your smile. Call Barr Dental Group today at (954) 327-7400 to request an appointment.