It is normal to have the occasional tooth pain or bout of bad breath. Sometimes these symptoms last a day and resolve on their own, and sometimes they persist longer. It can be difficult to tell what is merely irritating and what could be an indication of a more serious problem.
Dr. Ricardo Hernandez, a dentist at Pacific Beach Smile Studio, has put together a list of troubling signs to look out for. If you experience one of these symptoms, he encourages you to make an appointment with him as soon as possible.
Oral Pain
Pain or swelling in your mouth could be the result of a cavity, abscess or impacted tooth. Without addressing the source of the pain, the problem could progress until it requires costly and invasive treatment. See Dr. Hernandez as soon as possible to get the problem checked out.
Puffy or Bleeding Gums
Do your gums look swollen or inflamed, or bleed when you brush or floss? This could indicate early or advanced-stage , which can have disastrous consequences if it is not controlled.
Persistent Bad Breath
Bad breath may be the result of poor oral hygiene, or it can manifest as part of a more serious medical condition. A professional examination with Dr. Hernandez is recommended to determine the problem.
Sensitivity to Hot or Cold Beverages
Increased sensitivity to hot and cold beverages and food can occur due to several different problems. Tooth decay is a possibility, as is a fractured tooth, gum disease or an exposed tooth root.
Jaw Pain
If your jaw pops, clicks or cracks when you open your mouth, or you have persistent jaw pain, there may be a problem with your bite or your temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Dr. Hernandez can examine your jaw and perform diagnostic testing to determine the root of the problem.
You Hide Your Smile
If you are self-conscious of your teeth and find you avoid smiling or cover your mouth with your hand, there are treatments available to help. Modern cosmetic dentistry makes it possible to whiten teeth, conceal small imperfections, improve the spacing between your teeth or make any other improvements necessary so you can take pride in your smile.
You Have Dental Restorations
If you have , bridges, or dental implants, it is important to see Dr. Hernandez regularly for a quick check-up. He can double-check the integrity of your restorations and ensure they fit and feel comfortable.
A Year Has Passed Since Your Last Appointment
Some oral health problems do not cause any symptoms and are only detectable by a dentist. This is why it is important for you to schedule regular dental visits so Dr. Hernandez can examine your teeth and gums and look for any potential problems. Some people schedule appointments every six months and others once a year; Dr. Hernandez can recommend how often you need to return for a check-up based on your unique dental needs.
To make an appointment with Dr. Hernandez, please call our practice at 858-272-6047 today.