Visit a dentist if you have any of these issues or if your child is having trouble chewing or complaining of soreness:
- Mouth sores
- Jaw pain
- Redness
- Swollen face or gums
- Tooth sensitivity
- Broken teeth
- Dry mouth
- Bleeding gums
- Bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth
Getting checked out right away prevents more serious problems and infections developing further.
How to prevent dental and gum issues
Regular dental exams help spot trouble early to prevent bigger and more costly treatments later.
A dental hygienist will start by cleaning buildup from your teeth. Then the dentist will probe spots on the surfaces and near the gumline with special tools. If it’s been a while between appointments, you may have some sore and sensitive areas. You should get an exam every 6 months, or more often if your dentist recommends it. Find one who makes you feel at ease and lets you know what to expect. Often the dread of seeing the dentist turns to big relief when the visit is over and you have a care plan set up. Being positive as a parent can help your kids overcome any of their fears.
About fillings
Fillings are used to prevent cavities getting worse and protect your tooth. Cavities break through the surface enamel of teeth, and they’ll probably get bigger unless you close them off with fillings.
Your dentist will numb your mouth before drilling around the cavity to prep it. A combination of strong materials or a white mix called a composite goes into the cavity soft and then hardens as it dries. Once set, fillings can last a long time but need replacing if they break or wear down.