Taking care of your teeth is a daily commitment. From brushing and flossing to using mouthwash, your at-home routine is the foundation of good oral health. With countless products and online tutorials available, it can be tempting to manage minor dental issues yourself. But how do you know when a do-it-yourself approach is safe and when it’s time to call a professional?
While some minor problems can be managed at home, others require the skill and technology of a qualified dentist in Mt. Holly, NJ. Opal Dental’s guide below can help you determine when you can handle things yourself and when you should schedule a visit to our office.
When to DIY with At-Home Care
“DIY” sometimes has a bad reputation for being a lower-quality stand-in for something professionally done. However, a strong at-home dental hygiene routine is actually your first line of defense against cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems. These are the non-negotiable daily habits that keep your mouth healthy between professional dental cleanings.
Brushing and Flossing
This is the cornerstone of DIY dental care. Brushing twice a day for two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste removes plaque and food particles from the surfaces of your teeth. Flossing at least once a day is equally important, as it clears away buildup from between your teeth and under the gum line where your toothbrush can’t reach. Consistent brushing and flossing are the most effective ways to prevent tooth decay and gingivitis.
Minor Tooth Sensitivity
Mild sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet things is common. If you experience occasional, fleeting sensitivity without any other symptoms, you can often manage it at home. Try using a desensitizing toothpaste, which works by blocking the tiny tubules in your dentin that lead to the tooth’s nerve. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends toothpastes that contain ingredients like potassium and stannous fluoride.
Be patient, as it can take several weeks of consistent use to notice a significant difference. Avoiding highly acidic foods and drinks can also help reduce sensitivity.
Superficial Stains
Many surface stains from coffee, tea, or red wine can be addressed at home. Whitening toothpastes contain mild abrasives that can help polish away these stains. Over-the-counter whitening strips or gels are also effective for many people, helping to lighten the shade of your teeth.
However, it’s important to follow the product instructions carefully to avoid damaging your enamel or irritating your gums. For deeper stains, you’ll need professional teeth whitening. When in doubt, ask our dentist in Mt. Holly, NJ, first; we can give you a recommendation that fits your specific smile.
Canker Sores
These small, painful ulcers that appear inside your mouth are usually harmless and heal on their own within a week or two. You can manage the discomfort at home with over-the-counter topical anesthetic gels or by rinsing with a warm saltwater solution. Avoid spicy or acidic foods to also prevent further irritation while the sore heals.
When to Call a Dentist in Mt. Holly, NJ
While DIY care is essential, it has its limits. Attempting to treat serious dental issues at home can lead to bigger problems, more pain, and more expensive treatments down the road. Here are clear signs that you need to put down the home remedy and pick up the phone to call Opal Dental.
Persistent Tooth Pain
A toothache is your body’s way of telling you something is wrong. While minor sensitivity can sometimes be managed at home, any pain that is severe, throbbing, or lasts for more than a day or two requires professional attention.
A persistent toothache could be a sign of:
- Cavities
- Dental Abscesses (Infection)
- Cracked Teeth
- Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Only a dentist can accurately diagnose the cause and provide the right treatment. Ignoring it can let the problem get worse.
Bleeding, Swollen, or Sore Gums
If your gums bleed every time you brush or floss, it’s a common sign of gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease. While improving your home care can help, persistent bleeding, swelling, or tenderness indicates that you may have a more advanced problem.
Our dentist in Mt. Holly, NJ, can remove the hardened plaque that causes gum inflammation with a dental deep cleaning.
A Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Tooth
A damaged tooth is a dental emergency. Even a small chip can have sharp edges that irritate your tongue or cheek, and a larger fracture can expose the sensitive inner layers of the tooth, leading to pain and infection.
Never try to file or fix a broken tooth yourself. We need to assess the damage and determine the best course of action, which could range from dental bonding to a crown, to protect the tooth from further harm.
Chronic Bad Breath (Halitosis)
Everyone has bad breath occasionally. But if you have persistent bad breath that doesn’t go away with brushing, flossing, and mouthwash, it could signal an underlying health issue.
Chronic halitosis can be caused by gum disease, tooth decay, or infections. A dentist can help identify the oral health cause and create a treatment plan.
Loose Adult Teeth or Shifting Bite
Your permanent teeth should feel stable. If you notice a tooth is loose or your bite feels different, it’s a serious concern that requires immediate dental care.
A loose tooth could result from advanced gum disease, an injury, or other underlying issues. Don’t wait to see if it gets better on its own; book with our dentist in Mt. Holly, NJ right away.
Signs of an Abscess
A dental abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection. Symptoms include:
- Severe Toothache
- Temperature Sensitivity
- Pain When Chewing
- Facial or Cheek Swelling
- Pimple-Like Bump on Gums
This is a serious condition that can spread to other parts of your body and requires urgent treatment from a dentist, which may include a root canal or extraction.
DIY When It’s Safe, and Leave the Rest to Us
Think of your at-home care and professional dental visits as a partnership. Your daily habits are crucial for maintenance, but they can’t replace the expert diagnosis, treatment, and preventive care you receive from our dentist.
Don’t guess when it comes to your oral health. If you’re experiencing any worrying issues or have concerns about your teeth or gums, contact Opal Dental today to schedule an appointment with our dentist in Mt. Holly, NJ.