When Am I Too Late for a Dental Appointment?

24 Jul When Am I Too Late for a Dental Appointment?

There is an adage that goes “Nothing you wear is more important than your smile.” But then, we tend to forget that the true power of a smile lies in the hands of a healthy dentition.

So today, allow me to throw this at you – When was the last time you booked a dental appointment? 

Well, I know what you’re probably about to say – “Doctor, I am so busy I often forget”, “Doctor, my teeth aren’t giving me any issues so why bother checking it?” Yes, life gets busy and yes, your teeth may “seem healthy” but neglecting proper oral health and hygiene till it is too late can affect your overall wellbeing and quality of life. 

The mouth is largely referred to as a gateway to our overall health. So, if you ignore your dental appointment and wait until the time your teeth develop problems like the conditions mentioned below, it’s probably too late and it could cost you more than you planned. Do not wait until you experience the following:

• Persistent Toothache or Dental Pain: This is usually the most obvious sign. Pain in your teeth, gums, or jaw can already indicate the presence of several underlying issues. A toothache could be caused by a cavity or hole in the tooth, infected tooth, or even a cracked and impacted tooth. A dental examination can help identify the cause and provide the necessary treatment. 
• Chronic bad breath: Recurring bad breath also known as halitosis, can be embarrassing and could indicate underlying oral health and general health issues. While occasional bad breath might be due to food choices, poor oral hygiene, smoking, poor oral hygiene, and a coated tongue. A timely dental visit can help identify the cause and recommend solutions for fresher breath. 
• Bleeding gums: Healthy Gums Shouldn’t bleed when you brush or floss. Bleeding gums are a classic symptom of gingivitis or inflammation of the gums, which is the early stage of gum disease. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a severe gum infection that can damage the bone supporting the teeth which could lead to tooth loss. 
• Dry mouth: Diagnosing the reason behind dry mouth can pose a challenge largely because it could be as a result of side effects of using medications such as antibiotics. However, a chronic dry mouth can be uncomfortable thereby making it difficult to swallow or speak. This condition also creates a favorable environment for the growth of harmful bacteria, causing gum disease. A dentist can diagnose the cause and recommend solutions to keep your mouth hydrated.

Here’s your takeaway – Prevention is always key! Early detection and treatment of dental conditions are crucial for preserving oral health. If you wait until you experience any of these symptoms, sorry, you are probably too late for your dental appointment!

Scheduling regular dental visits and cleanings, ideally twice a year (at best once every quarter) is the best way to maintain good oral health and avoid problems before they arise. 

While you are at home, though, you can maintain a good oral hygiene practices by using the following common tips:

• Brush twice a day – before breakfast and after dinner
• Floss Daily 
• Maintain a healthy diet – avoid excess sugars.
• Avoid or Quit Smoking – research shows that people who smoke have a higher risk of developing a wide range of disease conditions such as tooth decay, loss of tooth, gum disease, and oral (mouth) cancers.

Smiling is an important part of our lives that we must always invest in. Don’t wait before it is too late.

Book your next dental appointment today!