Basic Dental Care

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.

Go to previous section	Go to top of page	Go to next section
Author:	Jeannette Curtis	Last Updated: May 22, 2007
Medical Review:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Steven K. Patterson, BSc, DDS, MPH - Dentist
© 1995-2008 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.