Oral hygiene is not just about brushing and flossing your teeth. While preventive care at home goes a long way in avoiding some of the common concerns, you should also consider seeing your dentist at least twice each year for a thorough oral exam. In this post, we are sharing five evident signs to see a dentist in Waikiki, Honolulu, without delay.

1. You have a toothache. Dental pain could be related to many reasons, including gum disease and tooth decay. If you have ever experienced a toothache, you know that the pain can be hard to endure. While OTC painkillers may provide some relief, you still need to schedule an appointment at the dental clinic to find the exact cause.
2. You have visible decay. If you have seen a change in the structure and look of a tooth, the chances are high that there is decay that needs attention. Early intervention, cleaning, and a filling can fix the problem, but if there is an infection in the tooth nerve, you will need root canal therapy. The earlier you seek medical care, the better.
3. You have bleeding gums. Bleeding gums are often a sign of gingivitis – the first stage of gum disease. The good news is gum disease is treatable, and in the initial stages, there is no need for extensive procedures. Your dentist may recommend root scaling and planing that will help remove tartar and bacteria. You may also use mouthwash to avoid further bacterial growth.
4. You have bad breath. Often more of a matter of embarrassment than anything else, bad breath requires a checkup. Remember that halitosis (bad breath) could be a sign of an infection or other concerns requiring further treatment.
5. You have moving teeth. If you find that your teeth are moving around in the mouth or the gaps between teeth are widening, you need to see a dentist immediately. Your dentist will check if you have advanced stages of gum disease and the treatment you can consider to save your natural teeth from extraction.

If there is trauma or injury to a tooth, call your dentist immediately. Not all clinics in Waikiki offer emergency dental care; therefore, you should have the number of a reliable dental practice on your phone at all times. When you haven’t seen your dentist in more than six months, that’s a reason good enough to schedule an appointment.