Most adults recognize the importance of keeping their teeth in their best possible condition. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, more than 64% of adults have had their dentist examine or clean their teeth during the past 12 months. It's best to have your teeth cleaned and examined by regular general dentist services two times a year, according to Colgate. Unfortunately, many people procrastinate and sometimes ignore the need for dental services until something goes wrong with their teeth. If you or a family member has delayed seeing your dentist, then here are three signs that it's time to schedule an appointment.

1. Hot or Cold Foods Cause Pain

When teeth start to go bad and the roots are affected, they become a lot more sensitive to extreme temperature changes. If you eat ice cream or hot soup, then you might notice pain occurring among the same teeth every time. You also might notice painful teeth if you go outside on a very cold day and breathe in the frigid air through your mouth. When extreme temperature changes cause pain, you need to see your dentist to find out why.

2. Gums Bleed While Brushing Teeth

One of the more common signs of the need for general dentist services occurs while brushing teeth. When spitting out the foamy toothpaste, you might see the telltale sign of blood as the toothpaste washes down the drain. That blood is from your gums and indicates you may have the onset of gum disease. You also might notice traces of blood at the base of some of your teeth after you finish brushing. It's important to see your dentist right away.

3. One or More Cavities Develop

The most obvious sign that you need to see your dentist is when a cavity makes itself apparent. You might notice a lot of pain in one or more teeth while chewing food or eating something that has a lot of sugar. Those are clear signs of one or more cavities. You can check for cavities in the mirror, but the position inside your mouth could hide them. Your dentist is the best person to diagnose your oral health with X-rays, a cleaning, and a dental examination.

You can call our friendly staff at Aurora Dental to schedule general dentist services that include examining and cleaning your teeth to ensure you have good oral health. We'll be happy to answer any questions you may have. Give us a call today!