We get it: going to the dentist isn’t always the most fun thing to do, but your body may be telling you it’s time to see a dentist. Arlington Heights, IL dental office AH Smiles offers comprehensive dentistry for all ages, ranging from routine office visits to complex dental concerns. So when might it be time to see a dentist?
1. You are missing one or more teeth
Teeth can be lost for a variety of reasons and it is not always necessarily a result of poor oral hygiene. No matter the reason, missing teeth should be replaced to preserve your oral health even if you aren’t concerned about aesthetics. Your dentist can talk to you about tooth replacement options such as implants, bridges, or even dentures.
2. You feel a tingling sensation when you eat sweet food or brush your teeth
Cavities don’t always cause pain right away. An early indication that you have a cavity may be sensitivity to temperature or sweet food. If you feel a tingling sensation when eating sweet food or brushing your teeth, see a dentist, because it could be an indication of a cavity.
3. You have pain in your mouth
Pain is the body’s way of letting you know when there is a problem. Pain in your mouth is not normal, and could be an indication of a problem in the teeth or jaw bone. It’s important not to ignore mouth pain, because many dental problems can lead to problems in other parts of the body.
4. You have a constant bad taste in your mouth
If you feel like there is a bad taste in your mouth that just won’t go away even after brushing, you may be suffering from advanced tooth decay. Oral bacteria produce foul-smelling acids from digestive food particles in your mouth. These can cause bad breath and a bad taste in your mouth. Tooth decay should be addressed in its early stages to avoid gingivitis, infection, or even loss of teeth and jaw bone tissue.
5. Your teeth are discolored
If your teeth are significantly discolored or you see that you have yellow deposits along the gum line, you should schedule an appointment to see Dr. Engelberg or your area dentist. Discolored teeth can be a sign of an issue inside the teeth. However, it can also happen naturally over time when we eat highly-pigmented foods. Yellow deposits along the gums indicate hardened plaque, called tartar, that needs to be removed to avoid tooth decay and gum disease.
6. You have cosmetic dentistry questions
Have you been wondering about teeth whitening, dentures, implants, or fixing crooked teeth? Your dentist will be able to answer any questions you have about your cosmetic goals and design a unique treatment plan to help you refresh your smile.
7. It has been a while since your last exam
Most dentists recommend dental exams every six months. This gives them the opportunity to check for cavities, remove hardened plaque from teeth, and catch any minor issues before they become more complicated. If you haven’t seen the dentist in a while, it might be time to schedule an appointment.
Arlington Heights, IL Dental Care
Dr. Brent Engelberg’s practice offers comprehensive, affordable, and experienced dental care to patients of all ages. We can help keep your smile healthy with customized treatment plans based on your unique needs. To consult with Dr. Engelberg, schedule a consultation online or call us at (847) 230-9703 today!