5 Signs You Should See a Dentist Immediately in Gig Harbor, WA

Did you know that, according to the World Health Organization, nearly 3.7 billion people are affected by oral disease? That’s literally 1 in every 8 persons.

A large number of people, especially the older generation, ignore oral health, as it is not important. But, when they are diagnosed with a severe dental issue, it will not be an easy journey. This eventually takes a toll on the quality of life, making it difficult to eat your favorite food, causing constant toothaches, and taking away your confidence to smile. Thus, it is crucial to take care of your oral health, as it is a significant segment of taking care of your overall health. At Oceanspray Dental, our experts usually suggest visiting a dentist every 6 months. But it is recommended to visit in between if any dental problems occur.

But how do you know when you should visit a dentist? In this blog, we will be discussing the importance of oral health along with the top 5 signs you should see a dentist right away in Gig Harbor. Let’s get started!

Importance of Dental Health

Dental health is not an aesthetic extension; it is a significant part of your overall health. All kinds of dental treatments focus on functional enhancement more than the aesthetic appeal. It is said that oral health is a window to your overall health. Also, did you know that dental ailments can affect the rest of the body?

It is also proven that your oral health can play a crucial role in several serious illnesses, including diabetes, heart disease, pneumonia, pregnancy, and birth complications. Oral inflammation, linked to periodontitis, may also contribute to certain diseases, such as diabetes and HIV/AIDS, which can worsen oral health problems.

The mouth is a vital entry point for germs, which can lead to disease throughout the body. So here is how you can protect your mouth:

• Good oral care, including daily brushing and flossing, helps control germs and prevent infections like tooth decay and gum disease.
• Certain medicines (prescribed by a dentist), such as decongestants and antihistamines, can lower saliva flow, preventing germs from spreading.
• If the toothache or any inconveniences in the tooth persist, please visit your dentist immediately.

5 Signs You Should See a Dentist Immediately in Gig Harbor, WA

1. Severe Tooth Pain

If you are experiencing persistent, sharp, throbbing tooth pain, it’s your body saying something is wrong.

This pain can be caused by:

• A deep cavity reaching the nerve
• An abscess or infection
• Cracked or damaged enamel

Neglecting this pain can lead to the infection spreading to more areas surrounding the tissues and the jawbone. The sooner you see the dentist, the better your chances of saving the tooth.

2. Swollen or Bleeding Gums

Healthy gums don’t easily bleed. If your gums bleed when you brush or floss or if you notice any swelling, tenderness, or redness, it might be due to gingivitis or periodontal disease. Gum infections can cause:

• Gum recession
• Tooth mobility
• Bone loss around tooth

At Oceanspray Dental in Gig Harbor, our top dentists detect early signs of gum disease and provide deep cleaning and scaling to restore your gum health.

3. Intense Sensitivity

Are you wincing when you eat ice cream or sip on hot coffee? Then it might be a case of intense sensitivity. This might indicate:

• Women’s enamel might be due to heavy brushing or grinding
• Exposed tooth roots
• Cracked or decayed tooth

If it persists, do not ignore it. Reach out to your dentist as soon as possible. Your dentist examines it properly and determines if you need a fluoride treatment, dental bonding, or any other form of treatment.

4. Broken Tooth

We often think that a broken or chipped tooth is not an aesthetic issue. It often leads to exposure of your inner tooth layer to bacteria. It might lead to infection or nerve damage. Based on the severity of the issue, your dentist may recommend:

• Dental bonding or filling
• Porcelain crown
• Root canal for severe cases

5. Swollen Jaw

A swollen jaw can be bad news if not treated timely. The symptoms can include a swollen jaw, having difficulty swallowing food or water, a bad-tasting mouth, a headache, and a fever.

Don’t wait—these infections can spread rapidly if untreated. Seek immediate dental attention to prevent complications and protect your overall health.

Experience Exceptional Care at Oceanspray Dental in Gig Harbor

• Trusted Local Experts: Located in the heart of Gig Harbor, Oceanspray Dental is dedicated to providing exceptional dental care for patients of all ages.
• Comprehensive Dental Services: From preventive checkups and cleanings to restorative and cosmetic treatments, our team ensures complete oral care under one roof.
  • Routine exams and professional cleanings
  • Fillings, crowns, and bridges
  • Dental implants and restorations
  • Teeth whitening and smile makeovers
• Patient-Centered Approach: We take the time to understand your needs, explain your options clearly, and create a treatment plan that fits your comfort and lifestyle.
• Advanced Technology: Our modern clinic is equipped with state-of-the-art tools to ensure precision, comfort, and faster recovery times.
• Experienced & Caring Team: Our skilled dentists and hygienists combine expertise with compassion, making every visit comfortable and stress-free.
• Emergency & Same-Day Appointments: We understand that dental issues can arise anytime, so our team is ready to provide urgent care when you need it most.
• Your Comfort Comes First: From the moment you step in, you’ll experience a calm, welcoming environment designed to make dental visits easy and pleasant.

Don’t Wait—Protect Your Smile with Oceanspray Dental

Your oral health affects your entire well-being. If you notice any of these warning signs, schedule a visit with Oceanspray Dental in Gig Harbor, WA, right away.
 Our caring and experienced team will identify the problem, relieve your discomfort, and help you get back to smiling confidently.

Call us today at (253) 853-3315 or visit oceanspraydental.com to book your appointment!