3 Reasons to See Your Dentist Even If You’re Not in Pain

November 12, 2021 in Dentistry by McCarl Dental Group
McCarl Dental Group hygienist with patient

Pain is not the only symptom you can expect to experience when dealing with an oral health problem. However, if you’re like most people, you might assume if you’re not uncomfortable, there is no need to visit your dentist in Greenbelt. Unfortunately, adopting this philosophy will only heighten your risk for serious dental problems if you’re not careful. Here are three reasons you should commit to seeing your dentist regularly even if you’re not in pain.

Certain Problems Don’t Tend to Cause Pain

It may surprise you but not all oral health concerns cause pain. Yes, it is a clear indicator that there is a problem when extreme discomfort occurs, but it is not the only defining factor. In fact, gum disease is one of the most common issues seen by dental professionals and yet, millions of Americans don’t even realize they have it. Seeing your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings can help minimize the potential for inflamed and bleeding gums as well as a serious infection that can not only cause bone and tooth loss but also, enter your bloodstream and put your overall health at risk.

Bodily Pain Might Actually Signal Issues Inside the Mouth

Even if you’re not experiencing pain within the oral cavity, if your head, neck, or back feels discomfort, it could be traced back to temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). Inflamed jaw joints can often lead to headaches and stiffness throughout the neck, shoulders, and back. While you shouldn’t rush to the dentist’s office each time your head hurts, pay close attention to all the symptoms you’re experiencing to determine if you need to let a dental professional examine you.

You May Not Feel Pain Now, But You Will Later

If you have an infection, it may not be deep enough within your tooth to feel pain…yet. The unfortunate realization is that it may come later, and it may be too late at that point. If decay reaches the innermost layer of your tooth, it can cause immense pain and sensitivity, often resulting in a root canal. However, if it is past the point of being able to save, the only viable solution is to extract the tooth and discuss potential replacement options.

If you want to avoid costlier procedures, don’t let pain dictate your decisions. Get in to see your dentist for regular appointments. In doing so, you may be able to treat an issue with antibiotics or a minor tooth filling as opposed to more complex treatment that requires more time and money.

About the McCarl Dental Group
The McCarl Dental Group consists of four dental experts who are committed to helping patients living in Greenbelt, MD, and its surrounding areas achieve their smile goals. Providing exceptional preventive dentistry services to stop oral health problems before they start, our team is here to minimize and eliminate signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and other common dental issues. We’re also available to provide tips and recommendations to help individuals avoid complex and expensive treatment. If you want a dentist you can trust, call our dental office today.