When You Should See a Family Dentist in Between Cleanings

Most people see their family dentist every six months for a dental cleaning. However, there are oral health issues that warrant a trip to the dentist’s office in between cleanings. These check-ins can protect your teeth’s integrity and your overall oral health in the long run.

Reasons to see a family dentist in between cleanings

It is common for patients to wonder whether they can wait until their next dental cleaning to ask a dentist about a sudden oral health issue. While this may be possible if the cleaning is in a couple of weeks, it is often better to call and ask the dentist’s office to be sure. Below are some of the most common oral health issues that require an appointment between cleanings:

Chipped or cracked tooth

Chips or cracks in the teeth may not cause immediate problems, especially when the cracks are minor. Unfortunately, the longer they are left untreated, the bigger these chips and cracks may become. They may spread past the enamel (the outer layer of the teeth) into the dentin (the tooth's second layer), causing pain and threatening the tooth's structural integrity. Visit a family dentist to avoid unnecessary pain and receive a more affordable dental restoration.

If the chipped or cracked tooth causes pain and discomfort, seeing a family dentist is all the more important. They can restore the tooth, preventing infection and relieving any pain.

Toothache

Toothaches can signify tooth decay or cavities. While cavities are a common dental issue, patients should not wait to treat them when accompanied by persistent aches or pains. For reference, the Mayo Clinic advises that patients see a family dentist if a toothache lasts longer than two days.

Tooth sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity could indicate a cavity, but it may also be a symptom of plaque buildup on the problem tooth. Plaque is a sticky, bacterial film that coats the teeth. When left on a tooth, it will eventually eat away at its structure. A family dentist can remove plaque without damaging the tooth’s surface, saving the tooth from decay. Then, they may provide fluoride treatments or dental sealants to reduce future plaque buildup.

Loose tooth, filling, or crown

A loose adult tooth (permanent tooth) is cause for concern, as is a loose dental filling or crown. Patients should consult a family dentist as soon as possible. They can provide treatments to save the tooth or replace the filling or crown.

When more frequent cleanings are recommended

Some patients need to visit a family dentist more often than every six months for a cleaning. This is mainly if the patient has certain risk factors that make oral health conditions more likely. A few examples include:

• A weakened immune system
• Certain preexisting health conditions, like diabetes
• Oral health conditions, such as gum disease or weakened teeth