When it comes to caring for your teeth, you need to go beyond basic dental hygiene. You also need to be ready to react to potential warning signs, especially those that could lead to serious dental problems. This includes knowing when it's time to schedule an appointment before it's time for your routine exam. Read the list provided below. If you've experienced any of the issues described here, it's time to schedule an appointment with your dentist. 

You're Spitting Blood

If you've started seeing blood whenever you brush your teeth, it's a good idea to schedule an appointment with your dentist. It's not uncommon to see a bit of blood when you brush your teeth too aggressively. However, if you're spitting blood each time you brush or floss your teeth or if you're seeing blood on your toothbrush, there might be a cause for concern. The presence of blood is often a sign of gum disease. If caught early enough, your dentist can provide effective treatment for gum disease. 

Your Gums Are Tender

If your gums are tender and you've noticed a slight swelling around your teeth, talk to your dentist right away. Gum tenderness can be an indication that you've got some dental problems going on. Gum tenderness can be a sign of gum disease. However, if the tenderness is localized to one area, it could be a sign of a tooth infection. You could have an abscess forming on your gums. Before the problem gets worse, schedule an appointment with your dentist. 

Your Teeth Are Sensitive

If you've noticed that your teeth have become sensitive to extreme temperatures, either hot or cold, it's time to visit your dentist. Tooth sensitivity can occur when your gums recede. However, it can also occur when you're dealing with cavities or severe tooth decay. Luckily, treatment is available for tooth sensitivity. However, you do need to see your dentist right away. 

You've Recovered From COVID-19

If you've recovered from COVID-19, don't wait until your six-month check-up to schedule an appointment with your dentist. You might not think that COVID-19 would increase your need for a dental exam, but that's not necessarily the case. You might have neglected your dental hygiene while you were sick, which means you may have some plaque that needs to be removed. Not only that, but the COVID-19 virus might have created some unexpected dental problems. For instance, dentists have found an increased occurrence of teeth grinding and clenching. Not only that, but some people are reporting tooth discoloration following COVID-19 infections. Others have had their teeth fall out following a COVID-19 infection. To protect your teeth, be sure to have a dental exam once you've recovered from COVID-19.

For more information, contact a general dentist office in your area, such as Smile Solutions LLC.