Dentist check-ups often seem to fall to the wayside when in reality, they are a vital part of our health and wellbeing. Our oral hygiene is important and even more important, is to recognise and understand that the mouth can show signs and symptoms of other illnesses. When we get a regular dental check-up, we give ourselves the best chance to be healthy. Here is an article we found highlighting the top reasons to see a dentist regularly.
Even if you don’t have any symptoms, checkups are important because they can help prevent problems from developing and treat existing symptoms before they become more advanced.
Pain or swelling in your mouth, face or neck can mean a number of things.
If your gums are puffy, they bleed when you brush or floss, or you have a family history of gum disease, it's time to make an appointment.
Whether you're self-conscious about a missing tooth or hoping for a brighter smile, don't be shy about talking to your dentist.
If you have fillings, crowns, dental implants or dentures, see your dentist regularly to make sure everything is in great shape.
Make your dentist part of your team if you have a medical condition (such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, eating disorders or are HIV positive), or you are undergoing medical treatment (such as radiation, chemotherapy or hormone replacement therapy).
It's safe to go to the dentist while pregnant. In fact, pregnancy can make some dental problems worse, so don't miss your regular checkup.
Difficulty chewing or swallowing is not the norm. Try eating soft or liquified foods until you can see your dentist.
Always feeling parched could be the sign of a medical issue or a medication side effect.
From bad breath to oral cancer, cigarettes and chewing tobacco are harmful to your overall and dental health.
Make an appointment if your jaw sometimes pops or is painful when opening and closing, chewing or when you first wake up. See a dentist also if you have an uneven bite.
If there's something that doesn’t look or feel right in your mouth, your dentist should examine any mouth sore that lasts a week or longer. Types of mouth sores include canker sores, cold sores, leukoplakia and candidiasis. They vary in their severity and causes. Mouth sores could be the symptom of a disease or disorder; infection from bacteria, viruses or fungus or result from irritation caused by braces, dentures or the sharp edge of a broken tooth or filling.
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