You notice a twinge of sensitivity when drinking cold water, or your gums bleed a little when you brush. "I'll wait and see if it goes away," you tell yourself.
This reaction is common, but when it comes to dental problems, waiting rarely works in your favor. Most dental issues don't resolve on their own; they quietly worsen until they require more extensive and costly treatment.
Tooth Sensitivity: "It'll Go Away Once I Switch Toothpaste"
Tooth sensitivity might seem like a minor inconvenience, but it's often a sign of a deeper problem. Sensitivity can indicate worn enamel, receding gums, or an early cavity.
Sensitivity toothpaste may provide temporary relief, but it doesn't address the underlying cause. Left untreated, the damage progresses, potentially leading to cavities that require fillings or more serious decay that needs root canal treatment.
Bleeding Gums: "I Just Brushed Too Hard"
Gums that bleed when you brush are an early warning sign of gingivitis. What starts as treatable gum disease can quickly progress to periodontitis, where the infection damages the bone supporting your teeth.
Taking a “wait and see” attitude turns a simple problem into one that threatens your teeth and requires more complex and involved treatment.
Minor Toothache: "It Comes and Goes, So It Must Not Be Serious"
Tooth pain that comes and goes is a sign that you have an infection or deep decay that's progressing. The pain may temporarily subside, but the underlying problem continues to worsen.
By the time the pain becomes constant and unbearable, you may be facing a root canal, abscess, or even tooth loss. You could avoid all of these problems by seeing your dentist at the first sign of pain.
Schedule with Your Dentist in Greeley, CO
The bottom line is that dental problems don't heal themselves or improve with time. During your routine checkup with Dr. BJ Stewart and Dr. Shawn Buffington at Norco Family Dentistry, mention these issues so we can address them before they escalate.
If you are in pain, we encourage you to schedule an emergency dental appointment so we can stop the situation from worsening and provide the crucial care you need.