Basic Dental Care: When To Call A Doctor

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When To Call a Doctor

Make an appointment with your dentist:

• For regular cleanings and exams. Most dentists recommend a visit every 6 months, but people who are at low risk for dental problems may need only yearly exams.
• If your gums bleed when you press on them or bleed often when you brush your teeth.
• If your teeth are loose or moving apart, or if there are changes in the way your teeth fit together.
• If your gums are very red, swollen, or tender, or if pus is present.
• If you have a toothache. Use a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, to help relieve the pain before you visit the dentist. Do not give aspirin to anyone younger than 20 because of the risk of Reye's syndrome.
• If you lose a filling.
• If you have an injury to the face, jaws, or teeth.
• If a sore in your mouth lasts more than 2 weeks.
• If you have bad breath that does not go away.

Last updated:	May 22, 2007
Author:	Jeannette Curtis
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Steven K. Patterson, BSc, DDS, MPH - Dentist
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC