It’s easy to put off the dentist when life gets busy, but your mouth often sends “early warning” signals before a minor issue becomes a painful (and expensive) emergency.

Here are the top 10 signs that it’s time to book a checkup:

1. Persistent Toothache

If you have a dull ache, sharp pain, or throbbing that lasts more than 1–2 days, it’s a red flag. Pain is your body’s way of saying something is wrong—usually a cavity, a cracked tooth, or an infection.

2. Bleeding or Swollen Gums

“Pink in the sink” is not normal. Healthy gums shouldn’t bleed when you brush or floss. If they are red, puffy, or bleed easily, you likely have gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, which is reversible if caught early.

3. Sensitivity to Hot or Cold

A sudden “zing” when you drink coffee or eat ice cream often means your enamel is thinning or your gums are receding, exposing the sensitive roots.

4. Chronic Bad Breath

If brushing and mouthwash don’t help your breath, you might be dealing with halitosis caused by deep-seated bacteria in cavities or gum “pockets” that you can’t reach at home.

5. Mouth Sores that Won’t Heal

Any sore, white patch, or red spot that lingers for more than two weeks should be examined. While most are harmless canker sores, persistent lesions can sometimes be early signs of oral cancer.

6. Loose or Shifting Teeth

In adults, teeth should never feel “wobbly.” If they do, it’s often a sign of advanced bone loss from gum disease or a result of an injury you might not have noticed.

7. Jaw Pain or Clicking

If your jaw pops when you yawn or hurts when you chew, you might have TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) issues. A dentist can help prevent long-term damage to the joint and your teeth from grinding.

8. Dry Mouth

A “cotton-mouth” feeling that won’t go away can be a side effect of medication or a sign of a health issue. Without enough saliva to wash away bacteria, you are at a much higher risk for rapid tooth decay.

9. Changes in Color or Texture

Keep an eye out for:

• Dark spots or holes on the surface of your teeth.

• White spots, which are often the very first sign of a developing cavity.

10. Difficulty Eating or Swallowing

If you find yourself chewing on only one side of your mouth because the other side hurts, or if swallowing feels “off,” it’s time for a professional evaluation to rule out infections or structural issues.

Pro Tip: Even if you have zero symptoms, the American Dental Association generally recommends a checkup every 6 months. Most dental problems don’t actually hurt until they are quite advanced!

We at Shraddha’s complete dental care are committed to providing and maintaining optimal oral health and ensuring that you are always smiling😄