Visiting your dentist regularly is important, even when your teeth and gums seem healthy. However, several situations need you to make a dental appointment sooner rather than later. Scheduling timely checkups and getting on top of potential issues ensures your good oral health. We wanted to share a few reasons to schedule a visit with us:
- You Haven’t Had a Checkup in a While
Our practice recommends checkups every six months. Skipping regular dental visits for over a year risks new issues going undetected. Getting back on track with exams makes sure problems like minor cavities, gum disease, or other issues are not overlooked between visits. Sticking to a regular routine of dental visits every six allows for early intervention if any concerns do arise.
- You Are Preparing For a Special Occasion
Weddings, reunions, graduations or special photos call for an optimized smile. If a special event is on your calendar, schedule a pre-event dental visit. Cleanings remove heavy plaque buildup and stains, while teeth whitening treatments brighten your natural tooth color. Preparation appointments may also detect if smaller chips or cracks warrant quick repairs for the best smile. Touching up your smile ahead of memorable photo opportunities gives peace of mind.
- You Have Tooth Pain, Sensitivity or Swelling
Lingering or sudden tooth pain is a sign that you should make an appointment right away. While toothaches sometimes come from minor irritation, they can indicate infection or damage that need treatment. Sensitivity to sweets or hot/cold food and drinks also call for an exam to pinpoint any underlying problems, such as a possible gum infection or cracked teeth. The same for any signs like puffy, inflamed or bleeding gums that suggest early stage gum disease. It is always wise to have unexplained oral pain or discomfort checked out sooner rather than later through your dentist.
- You May Be Grinding Your Teeth
Waking up with facial pain around the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) area may signal nighttime teeth grinding. This common habit can lead to damage over time. Initial symptoms like morning jaw soreness or tension is the prime reason to book a dental exam. Your dentist can exam your mouth and get you a custom mouthguard to manage the condition. It will act like a barrier between your teeth and prevent you from grinding or clenching.
- You or a Bed Partner Show Signs of Sleep Apnea
Frequent snoring or breathing pauses during sleep point to possible sleep apnea issues. If you use a CPAP or haven’t found a solution yet, come visit us for an appointment. Your dentist can provide oral appliance as an alternative solution. Custom-fit oral devices worn during sleep can help maintain airflow and prevent the soft tissues in your throat from closing. It’s easy to incorporate into your routine and much more comfortable than a CPAP.
Scheduling dental visits every six months covers basic maintenance, but acting promptly with any surprising pain or changes maximizes oral health. When in doubt, give us a call at 978-278-1760 to make an appointment. Call Contemporary Dentistry and Implantology at 978-278-1760 to or contact us request an appointment online for an appointment in Peabody, MA.