12 Reasons to Visit Your Dentist

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1. You have pain - Pain or swelling in your mouth can mean a number of things. The dentist can check to make sure it's not a serious problem and alleviate your pain.

2. Your gums are acting up - If your gums are puffy, bleed when you brush, or your have a family history of gum disease it's time to set up an appointment with the dentist.

3. You try to hide your smile - There are several cosmetic options available including Invisalign, teeth whitening, and veneers. We want to give everyone a perfect smile.

4. You’ve had work done - If you have fillings, crowns, root canals, implants or bridges, see the dentist regularly to make sure everything looks good.

5. You have on going medical issues - Make your dentist part of your medical team, especially if you are being treated for diabetes, cardiovascular disease, eating disorders or are undergoing medical therapy (such as chemotherapy).

6. You are pregnant - Pregnant women are prone to bleeding gums so it's important to come for regular cleanings and check-ups while pregnant. Some insurance will even pay for an extra cleaning while you are pregnant. Give us a call so we can check how many cleanings you are eligible for while you're pregnant.

7. You use any kind of tobacco - From bad breath to oral cancer, cigarettes and chewing tobacco are harmful to your overall health. When you come in for a check-up and cleaning every 6 months the dentist will do an oral cancer screening as part of your visit.

8. You have dry mouth - Dry mouth can cause multiple cavities to appear in a short time. If you are experiencing dry mouth, the dentist can check for cavities and give you tips on how to help you cope with your condition.

9. You have trouble eating - Difficulty chewing or swallowing is not normal or sustainable, if you are having issues eating visit the dentist as soon as possible.

10. You have jaw pain or trouble sleeping - If you have issues with jaw pain, popping in your TMJ joint or trouble sleeping you need to see the dentist. You may need a night guard, TMJ evaluation or sleep study to help with these issues.

11. You have sores in your mouth - If there's something that doesn’t look or feel right in your mouth, the dentist should examine any mouth sore that lasts a week or longer. Types of mouth sores include canker sores, cold sores, leukoplakia and candidiasis. They vary in their severity and causes. Mouth sores could be the symptom of a disease or disorder; infection from bacteria, viruses or fungus or result from irritation caused by braces, dentures or the sharp edge of a broken tooth or filling

12. You need a professional dental cleaning - The American Dental Association recommends cleanings every 6 months, even for the healthiest of patients. Your dental insurance will cover a cleaning every 6 months or possibly more. Call us to see how many cleanings you are eligible for this year!

Call us at 410-672-3501 or email us at FieldsFamilyDental@gmail.com to set up an appointment!

From the American Dental Association