Visiting your dentist is a must to protect your teeth from damage. At Hearthside Dentistry in Thornton, CO, Dr. Christina McMillon provides patients with several preventative services and restorative procedures. But when do you know it's time to visit your dentist?
Signs it's time to see your dentist
Pain and toothaches are a big sign you should visit your dentist. Pain is your body's alarm that something is wrong and needs your attention. Toothaches occur when bacteria has infiltrated a tooth and reached a deeper layer rich with nerves. If you don't visit your dentist, this issue may spiral into tooth loss and then the fix will be more invasive and expensive.
Sores are painful and while canker sores can resolve themselves, there are other more insidious sores that require your dentist's immediate attention. Sores can be a sign of oral cancer and your Thornton, CO, dentist needs to properly diagnose it so she can discuss treatment options.
Persistent bad breath is embarrassing! If you continuously brush, floss, and use mouthwash but have bad breath, this may be a symptom of gum disease, an infection that damages oral tissue- soft tissue and bone that supports teeth. Periodontitis may lead to tooth loss if left untreated. Gum disease is largely preventable if you maintain a healthy oral regimen.
It's been six months since you've seen your dentist. As a rule of thumb, you should visit your dentist every six months for a routine checkup and a professional dental cleaning. If it's been six months since your last appointment, you need to schedule an appointment now. Checkups and cleanings help maintain your health and prevent disease or serious issues from progressing.
Would you like to book an appointment?
If you'd like to visit Dr. McMillon, don't hesitate to call Hearthside Dentistry in Thornton, CO, at (303) 280-2285.
