When was the last time you saw the dentist? Did you know that if it has been more than six months you are already considered overdue for key preventive care? If it has been several years since you last visited the dentist for a routine visit, it is possible that you might be in need of more than a simple cleaning. Your smile is best protected when you schedule routine appiontments, during which the dentist can check for any potential problems and also clean any calcified tartar buildup that is present. That said, if you are exhibiting any warning signs of dental problems, it might be time to schedule a restorative dental treatment, before the issue becomes any worse.
Do your teeth feel sensitive?
Does it hurt to chew?
Is there noticeable staining or discoloration on your teeth?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, you could be suffering from a dental problem, such as a cavity, or even gingivitis, which is the first stage of gum disease. While sensitivity is not uncommon, it can, in many cases, be an early warning sign of acidic erosion, the kind characteristic of dental cavities.
Discomfort chewing can also be an indicator of a cavity, though it could also be caused by intrinsic damage created by an accident or injury.
Even visible discoloration could be indication of a problem that might require restorative treatment. Both dark lines and patches, as well as white patches, can actually be indicaiton that the enamel has been damaged to the point that the more senstive layer beneath it, the dentin, has become exposed.
In these cases, dental fillings are often the best form of treatment. Thankfully, modern restorations provide great protection from further erosion while offering cosmetic benefits as well.