3 Signs You Need To Go To The Dentist

While taking a trip to a dentist's office may not be your idea of fun, it's an absolutely vital part of oral health and your physical well-being more generally. Many people are only convinced to go see a dentist when they have been suffering from pain or discomfort for an extended period of time, but there are a variety of signs and symptoms that should prompt a visit. If you are curious about what you should look out for when it comes to your teeth and gums, take a look below at just three of the most important signs you should have a dentist take a closer look.

Bleeding Gums

If you experience bleeding gums, don't panic just yet — it may just be the result of brushing your teeth too hard. That said, if the bleeding continues for several days, take it as a sign to see a dentist as soon as possible. That's because bleeding gums may be a sign of an infection, which can spread quickly throughout your body. It may also be a sign that your body is deficient in crucial vitamins such as Vitamin C. Whether or not the bleeding is accompanied by pain, it is wise to ask a dentist about possible causes and treatments.

Jaw Pain

It's important to remember that you teeth don't exist in isolation; what happens to your teeth can directly affect your jaw, neck, and face. That's why you should see a dentist right away if you suddenly begin to experience jaw or neck pain. While there are many root causes of such pain, one of the most common is teeth grinding, also known as bruxism. For most people, this tendency happens when they are asleep, and so they are completely unaware of it until they go see a dentist.

Pregnancy

One of the most overlooked reasons to go visit a dentist is that of pregnancy. Women who discover they are pregnant are usually eager to line up appointments with their obstetrician, but don't always remember that visiting the dentist is just as important. That's because the hormones that play a major role in pregnancy can affect your oral health, too. In fact, any pre-existing dental conditions you may have had before getting pregnant can be exacerbated during pregnancy. It is always a good idea to have a thorough checkup at your dentist's office during the early and later stages of pregnancy. 

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