Many people don’t enjoy going to the dentist. In fact, they try to avoid it altogether if possible. For those who avoid the dentist, it could be a result of dental anxiety or dental fear. This is a condition where people are afraid of the dentist or of dental work. As a result, their dental appointments are uncomfortable or non-existent. Nearly a third of adults in the US have dental anxiety to some degree, ranging from mild to severe.
While it is understandable that some people are wary of their dental appointments, it can be bad for your oral health. If you are someone with dental anxiety, you should talk to your dentist at Stone Creek Dental. They can help you work through some of your fear and offer you treatment options or alternatives. For example, your dentist may provide you with a form of sedation dentistry to help you relax or walk you through your entire procedure to help put your mind at ease.
In addition, you should know some of the signs that require a dentist’s attention.
Bleeding Gums
If you notice blood when brushing or flossing your teeth, you should contact your dentist. It could be an early sign of gingivitis. While it is possible to have bleeding gums for an unrelated reason, it is generally a warning sign for gum disease. If you do not floss your gums regularly, plaque can build up between your teeth and underneath your gum line.
Unfortunately, plaque irritates the soft tissues of the gums, causing inflammation and swelling. Over time, your gums can begin to deteriorate or pull away from your teeth. It is essential that you talk to your dentist to prevent any significant damage.
Loose Teeth
Having loose teeth can mean any number of things. You could have experienced an injury to your teeth, which loosened your teeth. Even your oral health can impact the stability of your teeth. Regardless of the reason, you should contact your dentist as soon as possible. It is possible for you to lose your teeth if you don’t seek dental intervention.
If your oral health is not the best, your gums can recede. Because your gums provide stability to your teeth, your teeth can loosen. As a result, you can potentially lose your teeth.
Dry Mouth
If you have chronic dry mouth, you should talk to your dentist. Dry mouth is a condition where your mouth doesn’t produce enough saliva. This can leave your mouth feeling dry, sticky, or dehydrated. Unfortunately, dry mouth is not simply a matter of comfort; it can begin to affect your oral health. This is because your mouth requires a moist environment to stay healthy.
When you have dry mouth, you are more likely to develop tooth decay or gum disease. This is because harmful bacteria like plaque thrive and multiply in a dry environment.
White Spots
Although many people want white smiles, random white spots are not in the desired cosmetic category. In fact, it could be a sign of tooth decay. If you see white spots, you should call your dentist at Stone Creek Dental.