Signs You Need to See a Dentist: It May Be Time for a Dental Visit
Are you wondering whether it's time you saw a dentist? Patients at our Westmount, QC, dental office often ask the same thing. In some cases, like a persistent toothache, the answer seems like a simple yes. In others, though, not so much. In this blog post, we’ll touch on reasons it’s important to visit our office.
First Things First: The Importance of Periodic Exams
If you’re unsure how often you should visit a dentist for regular cleanings and exams, you’re far from alone. According to the Canadian Dental Association, most people should visit the dentist at least every six months. For some, like those with gum disease, the recommended frequency is higher.
Can’t remember the last time you saw a dentist? We’re going to guess it was longer than six months ago. If that’s the case, we encourage you to reach out to us and request an appointment.
Other Indicators You Should See a Dentist
In addition to needing a cleaning, there are several reasons we invite you to contact us as soon as you can:
- Bleeding Gums: Do your gums bleed when you floss? Gum disease could be the culprit.
- A Toothache: Toothaches are most often a sign you need to have a cavity filled. It can also indicate a root canal infection.
- Sensitive Teeth: Sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures can also indicate decay or infection. In other cases, you might have worn enamel or gum recession.
- Teeth Grinding: Grinding and clenching may respond to stress reduction but it can also worsen quickly without a dentist’s help.
- A Chipped Tooth: Our patients chip their teeth in all sorts of ways, from opening beer bottles with their teeth to experiencing trips and falls.
- A Crown or Veneer Fell Off: Despite what TikTok may tell you, never attempt to re-attach a dental restoration at home. Contact us immediately so we can protect your smile.
There is a huge range of reasons why else you might need a dentist’s attention. When in doubt, give our team a call so we can provide more information based on your unique situation. We’re confident we can provide prompt relief at our Westmount office for your concerns or provide a referral to a trusted specialist if you need it.
Maintaining Your Oral Health
Six months can fly by in the blink of an eye. During each check-up at our office, we’ll make sure to schedule you for your next appointment. If you’re skeptical you’ll know your availability that far in advance, we get it. But it’s always going to be easier to reschedule as the date approaches than remembering it’s time for your check-up.
Set Up a Dental Cleaning & Exam Today
You know the saying: an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. If a toothache or other urgent issue has prompted you to research new dentists, take this as a sign that it’s time to start treating your smile right. Our Westmount team will never judge you – no matter how long it’s been since you’ve seen a dentist. We’re just happy to welcome you to our dental practice. Take the first step toward better oral health today by requesting an appointment.
