5 Signs It’s Time to Schedule a Dental Appointment

We know that life gets busy, especially with the upcoming holiday season. It’s easy to keep putting off your routine dental cleanings and checkups. However, skipping your important checkups can lead to serious oral health issues in the future. We wanted to review a few signs it’s time to make an appointment. 

  • It’s Been Over 6 Months Since Your Last Checkup 

We recommend getting a professional cleaning and exam every 6 months. However, if it’s been longer than that since your last visit, it’s not too late to get back on track with your oral care routines. When we professionally clean your teeth, we remove plaque and tartar that you miss when brushing and flossing at home. It will prevent cavities and gum disease. We also check for any signs of decay or other oral health problems. Spotting issues early will keep costs down and treatments easy. 

  • You Have Tooth Pain or Discomfort

If you have a tooth that hurts when you bite into food or when you drink something hot or cold, it could signal a cavity or other issue that needs attention. It’s your body’s way of alerting you something is wrong. So, you don’t want to ignore it. Give us a call to have it checked out. We’ll examine your mouth and determine the path to restoring your oral function and dental health. 

  • Your Gums Bleed When Brushing or Flossing 

If your gums bleed when you brush and floss, it could be a red flag that you have early stages of gum disease. You don’t want to wait for symptoms to progress. Gum infections can lead to more serious oral health and overall health issues later if neglected. So, when you come in for your appointment, if we notice your gums have an infection, we’ll discuss the necessary treatments. It may be necessary for you to return more often for cleanings, so we can keep the disease at bay. 

  • You Have Bad Breath That Won’t Go Away 

Do you have lingering bad breath that isn’t fixed by thorough teeth brushing? That could be a sign of gum disease as well. The buildup from plaque and tartar can cause unpleasant odors in your mouth. However, that’s not the only cause. Certain foods, smoking habits, and even medication can lead to problems. So, if brushing, flossing, and mouthwash aren’t fixing it, we can track down the source of the concern and offer tips to help or address any lingering oral health issues. 

  • You Have a Chipped or Broken Tooth 

If you have cracked, chipped, or otherwise broken a tooth, you need prompt care. The sooner it’s repaired, the better chance your tooth has of being saved. Depending on the location and extent of the damage, we may be able to smooth out chips and repair fractures or place a crown over your tooth. If you are in a great deal of pain, don’t hesitate to give us a call. We’ll get you out of pain and restore your smile.

 Ignoring symptoms like toothaches, gum bleeding, bad breath, and other issues can allow minor oral health issues to get much worse. Don’t skip your dental checkups or delay treatment. Keep your appointments every 6 months and see your dentist at the first sign of trouble. Regular professional cleanings and exams are essential for protecting your teeth and gums.

Call us today at 605-250-4651 (Minnesota Ave) 605-638-9986 (Eastside) to schedule an appointment at Sioux Falls Smiles in Sioux Falls, SD. You can also schedule online.