Dental hygiene can be tricky business. Sometimes teeth will display obvious signs of wear and tear, but often the real problems can lie deep below the surface. Understanding when to see a dentist can help prevent any long lasting issues.
Brushing and flossing every day is helpful, however teeth can still become decayed unless they are treated by a professional. Bacteria and plaque can build up between the teeth and on the gum line which will rot away the surface of the teeth. It is best to see a dentist for a cleaning twice a year to get rid of the plaque and bacteria that brushing alone misses.
Physical pain is also an indicator of serious dental problems. Tooth decay can cause cavities or periodontal disease which will weaken teeth. When teeth become weak they can create discomfort when chewing or begin to cause swelling in the mouth. It is important to visit a dentist right away if pain or swelling is present so that preventative action can be taken. If untreated for too long a root canal or tooth extraction may become necessary.
Coloration is also an indicator of how healthy teeth are. White teeth and pink gums are signs of relative good health. Yellow teeth and red gums can be signs of serious dental problems. Gum disease and tooth decay can lead to cavities and tooth loss. The processes are reversible, however, and seeing a dental professional quickly can help undo some of the damage.
Inspecting teeth for blemishes can also help indicate if a trip to the dentist is needed. Teeth can become impacted and show signs of cracking which will require immediate attention to decrease the risk of tooth extraction. Crowns and fillings can be used to fix cracking before a major issue arises. Previous fillings should also be inspected to identify the material used. If silver fillings are present, then a trip to a dentist is recommended in order replace them with composite resin or ceramic fillings. Silver fillings can be dangerous as the material expands and contracts, which puts stress on the teeth.
It is easy to overlook dental hygiene, yet the consequences can be seen in simple, everyday activities like eating, drinking and smiling. Learning the signs of tooth decay and gum disease is imperative. Despite regular brushing and flossing, a visit to a dental professional will ensure complete oral health. Click this link to find out more about your local family dentist in Raleigh.
Brushing and flossing every day is helpful, however teeth can still become decayed unless they are treated by a professional. Bacteria and plaque can build up between the teeth and on the gum line which will rot away the surface of the teeth. It is best to see a dentist for a cleaning twice a year to get rid of the plaque and bacteria that brushing alone misses.
Physical pain is also an indicator of serious dental problems. Tooth decay can cause cavities or periodontal disease which will weaken teeth. When teeth become weak they can create discomfort when chewing or begin to cause swelling in the mouth. It is important to visit a dentist right away if pain or swelling is present so that preventative action can be taken. If untreated for too long a root canal or tooth extraction may become necessary.
Coloration is also an indicator of how healthy teeth are. White teeth and pink gums are signs of relative good health. Yellow teeth and red gums can be signs of serious dental problems. Gum disease and tooth decay can lead to cavities and tooth loss. The processes are reversible, however, and seeing a dental professional quickly can help undo some of the damage.
Inspecting teeth for blemishes can also help indicate if a trip to the dentist is needed. Teeth can become impacted and show signs of cracking which will require immediate attention to decrease the risk of tooth extraction. Crowns and fillings can be used to fix cracking before a major issue arises. Previous fillings should also be inspected to identify the material used. If silver fillings are present, then a trip to a dentist is recommended in order replace them with composite resin or ceramic fillings. Silver fillings can be dangerous as the material expands and contracts, which puts stress on the teeth.
It is easy to overlook dental hygiene, yet the consequences can be seen in simple, everyday activities like eating, drinking and smiling. Learning the signs of tooth decay and gum disease is imperative. Despite regular brushing and flossing, a visit to a dental professional will ensure complete oral health. Click this link to find out more about your local family dentist in Raleigh.