How to Know When to See Your Dentist

Island Dental has a very friendly and professional staff, but let’s be honest: A dental office simply isn’t as much fun as an amusement park. Indeed, no one considers a dental office to be “the happiest place on Earth.”

Patients who avoid dentists are specifically trying to escape the (perceived) pain and expenses associated with dental treatments. Ironically, those who avoid dental appointments eventually end up experiencing greater expense and more pain (from the ailment, not the dentist), due to neglecting their oral care.

If you’re the type of person who eludes your dentist, we want to make sure you know when it’s time to stop avoiding your friends here at Island Dental and come and see us. Here are 10 indicators that you need to see a dentist right away. So, please come and see Dr. Patel if:

— you have any sort of pain or swelling in your mouth, face or neck

— you have a sore spot inside your mouth that doesn’t feel right and isn’t going away

— your teeth are overly sensitive to hot or cold

— you are pregnant

— your gums are swollen, and they bleed when you brush or floss

— you have persistent bad breath or a terrible taste in your mouth

— it’s difficult for you to chew or swallow

— your mouth seems dry all the time

— your jaw pops, clicks or snaps when you open or close your mouth

— you smoke or use any other tobacco products

The American Dental Association reports that 100 million Americans fail to visit a dentist each year, even though regular dental exams and good oral hygiene can actually prevent most dental disease!

Another significant reason to attend your regularly scheduled dental checkups is to allow your doctor to identify problems in their early stages, when the treatment is usually simpler and more affordable.

So, if you can identify with one or more of the indicators listed above, be sure to call us at 480-725-3031 to schedule an appointment, and we’ll be happy to help you to protect your smile.