4 Signs That You Need to See a General Dentist

General Dentist Oak Ridge, TN

If you think you are having dental problems, see a general dentist as soon as possible. Unfortunately, dental problems do not usually clear up on their own but tend to worsen without treatment. Learn about the major signs indicating you need to see a dentist immediately.

About general dentists

There are many general dentists in Oak Ridge and the surrounding area. It is important for patients to do their research and choose an experienced dentist whom they feel comfortable with. A general dentist provides dental patients with the primary dental care services they need and additional services such as referrals to specialists.

When it is necessary to see a general dentist

Here are four major signs that someone should see a general dentist right away:

#1. Red, swollen, and bleeding gums

According to the American Dental Association, when someone has puffy gums that bleed when brushing or flossing or has a family history of gum disease, it is time to make an appointment. Inflammed and bleeding gums are a symptom of gum disease and need to be treated by a general dentist to prevent them from getting worse. When gum disease is treated in its earliest stage, gingivitis, it can be reversible.

#2. Tooth pain

Tooth pain is a leading sign that it is time to see a dentist. If the pain lasts more than three days or is sharp, it could signify a deeper problem. It is possible for someone who is experiencing tooth pain to have an infection. Toothaches need to be treated quickly in order to keep the infection from spreading. Common treatments for tooth pain include getting a dental filling and undergoing root canal therapy.

#3. Headaches, soreness from grinding teeth

People who grind or clench their teeth will eventually experience tooth-related problems. In addition, they may experience headaches and general soreness in the facial area from the act of grinding and clenching. Some people grind their teeth only at night, some only grind during the day, and some grind during both the night and day. No matter when someone grinds or clenches their teeth, a dentist can help them correct this harmful habit.

#4. Dry mouth

Dry mouth can result from a number of factors and issues, such as certain medical conditions, medications, and aging. This condition means the salivary glands are not making enough saliva in order to keep one's mouth wet. Dry mouth can turn into a chronic condition and create other dental-related problems. Those struggling with dry mouth can get help from a general dentist.

Bottom line

Now you know the common signs that call for a trip to the dentist's office. General dentists are primary care dental providers, making them the first point of contact for someone in need of dental treatment. If you notice any of these four signs, make a dentist appointment as soon as possible to avoid further dental problems.

Request an appointment here: https://www.johnbburgessdds.com or call John B. Burgess, DDS at (865) 321-9505 for an appointment in our Oak Ridge office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentist in Oak Ridge, TN.

Recent Posts

General Dentist Office Tips: Steps To Treat A Toothache

Wondering if a general dentist can offer tips for treating a toothache? General dentists are a great resource to utilize when looking for ways to remedy any type of pain in the oral cavity. When looking for more information on treating pain, it can also be helpful to know what causes toothaches to begin with. According…

Tooth Bonding: Is This Something That General Dentists Do?

Are you thinking about choosing a general dentist to perform a cosmetic procedure that can allow you to feel more confident about the way you look when you smile? There are many different types of dental professionals you can choose from these days, which means you do have options. Many dental patients are choosing to…

Know What To Expect With Your Dentist In Oak Ridge

If it has been a while since your last visit to a dentist in Oak Ridge, you might find yourself wondering what to expect when you get there. There first thing you should remember is that the dentist is there to help you. Their job is to make your visit as pleasant as possible and…

5 Benefits Of Visiting A General Dentist In Oak Ridge

Visiting a general dentist in Oak Ridge is one of the most important things a person can do to keep healthy teeth and gums. Although it can be easy to skip going to the twice-per-year cleaning and checkup appointments, failing to visit the dentist regularly can cost much more time and money in the long-run.…

Recent Posts

Does A Smile Makeover Include Teeth Whitening?

Does A Smile Makeover Include Teeth Whitening?

Are you considering getting a smile makeover and looking into all the available options? While some people who want to makeover their smile know exactly what they want, not everyone does. This makes it a good idea for anyone interested in getting their smile made over to understand the options available, which often starts with…

Three Reasons Not To Use Over The Counter Teeth Whitening Products

Three Reasons Not To Use Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening Products

Over-the-counter teeth whitening products can cause teeth sensitivity, gum irritation, and undesirable results. Instead, it is best to visit a licensed dentist for teeth whitening treatment. They can ensure the safety and effectiveness of teeth whitening treatment. While it may be tempting to try and save a few dollars on a store-bought whitening kit, it is…