You get your cleanings done as recommended by your dentist in order to keep your oral health in check. However, you sometimes have to go to the dentist in between cleanings, even if you don't have a dental emergency like a chipped or lost tooth.
Since going to the dentist isn't usually at the top of your list, you may wish to wait until obvious signs of dental distress are noticeable before making a dental appointment. This isn't recommended, as waiting to see the dentist can make your oral woes even worse. Here are signs you should see the dentist between cleanings even if your mouth feels and looks OK.
You've got bad breath
Everyone gets bad breath from time to time, but if your bad breath is causing people to notice or you can't get rid of the odor with gum, mouthwash, or toothpaste, you may have a dental problem.
Bad breath is often caused by gum disease or infection. In short, bacteria and infection present in the mouth will cause a foul, decaying odor that is hard to get rid of. Gum disease can be a major problem, especially if you have bad breath, and can cause dental decay and gum loss, which in turn leads to tooth loss.
Your dentist will give you an oral exam to see why your breath is foul. If your bad breath is accompanied by a mouth or sinus infection, you'll get antibiotics to treat your condition along with a cleaning, possible prescription for mouthwash, and other treatments.
You've got a weird colored tooth
Are all your teeth the same color, save one? There are a few reasons why your tooth may be odd-colored: your tooth is either dead or dying or has a crown that is starting to fail. An older filling can cause a tooth to discolor as well.
A dead or dying tooth often looks yellow, light green, tan, or even gray or black in appearance. A worn-out crown or filling will usually look dark around the base of the tooth. Either way, if your tooth isn't the same color as the rest of your teeth, you should be alarmed and make an appointment with your dentist as soon as you can.
Your dentist will keep your mouth in healthy condition as long as you take care of your oral problems. Seeing your dentist regularly helps keep your smile healthy. Talk to your dentist for more information.
