Dental health is an important part of overall health and is often overlooked. While it is good practice to visit your dentist for regular cleanings, it is also important to recognize the signs that you may need to see Dr. Mingus in Bend sooner than later. Aside from the obvious reasons like a toothache or broken tooth, there are many other things that can signal a whole array of dental issues that need to be addressed. Let’s take a look at some of the less obvious signs from Dr. Mingus.
Gum Bleeding or Swelling
If you notice your gums are bleeding, swelling, or redness, it could be a sign of gum disease. Gum disease is a serious dental issue that can lead to serious complications if left untreated. It can cause the destruction of gum tissue and even bone loss.
Lingering Bad Taste or Bad Breath
If you notice a bad taste in your mouth that lasts even after you’ve brushed, it could be a sign of an issue with a tooth or your gums. You may also notice bad breath that won’t go away no matter what you do. These can be signs of periodontal disease that should be addressed as soon as possible as it can lead to extensive damage.
Pain in the Jawbone
There are many potential reasons for pain in the jawbone, but it can also be a sign of a dental issue. For example, if you have issues with your temporomandibular joint (TMJ), it can cause pain and discomfort in the jaw. Seeing Dr. Mingus is important because there are treatments that can help to alleviate this pain and improve your jaw function.
Trouble Eating
If you find yourself struggling to eat food you never had trouble with in the past, it could be a toothache or diseased gum tissue. This may also be a sign of decay in a tooth that needs to be addressed before it causes more damage.
Discoloration or White Spots
An odd-colored tooth stain or unfamiliar white spots on a tooth are signs that something isn’t right. This could be a sign of enamel hyperplasia, which is a condition that requires dental treatment to rectify.
Receding Gums
If you notice recession of the gums not only can this be an aesthetically unpleasant issue, but it can also be a sign of gum disease. If left untreated for an extended period of time, this condition can lead to tooth loss and extensive bone loss in the underlying bone tissue.
Sensitivity to Temperature
If it seems like your teeth are sensitive to both hot and cold foods or drinks, it’s time to see the dentist. This is often a sign of decay or nerve issue within the tooth that needs treatment.
Spotting Early Signs & Seeking Care
It is important to note that with dental issues spotting the early signs is critical to getting the appropriate treatment before more extensive damage is done. Dr. Mingus in Bend encourages his patients to be aware of these signs and not to ignore them. By addressing these signs quickly, patients can avoid the need for extensive treatment later down the road. If one or more of the above signs describe what is going on in your mouth right now, it’s time to call Dr. Mingus and schedule a visit.