What Are the Signs That I Need to See a Dentist?

Not sure if that lingering tooth pain or bleeding gum is worth a trip to the dentist? You’re not alone.
At Southcoast Dental in Wareham, MA, we believe in proactive care—and that means helping you recognize when something in your mouth needs professional attention. Whether it’s been years since your last checkup or something just doesn’t feel right, knowing the signs can help you prevent more serious dental problems down the line.

With advanced technology, same-day care options, and a team that believes in honest, educational care, we’re here to make dental visits easier and more comfortable than ever.

This Article Will Address:

• The most common signs you should see a dentist
• How to tell if you might need a root canal
• What a dental abscess feels like
• What happens if you avoid the dentist for years
• What it means if your gum is growing over a tooth
• How long tooth pain might last before the nerve dies
• The long-term benefits of preventative dental visits

Common Signs You Should See a Dentist

Dental symptoms don’t always scream for attention—but that doesn’t mean they should be ignored. Here are some of the most common warning signs:

• Tooth pain or lingering sensitivity
• Gums that bleed during brushing or flossing
• Swelling or pus near a tooth or gum line
• Dry mouth
• Chronic bad breath
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Dark spots, visible decay, or rough patches
• Jaw pain, tension, or frequent headaches

Even if the discomfort seems manageable, it’s important to let a dental professional evaluate what’s going on. Small problems can turn into larger issues if left untreated.

What Are the Symptoms of Needing a Root Canal?

Root canals get a bad rap, but they’re often the procedure that saves your tooth from being lost entirely. You may need one if you notice:

• Persistent, throbbing pain (especially when biting or chewing)
• Sensitivity to hot or cold that sticks around
• A tooth that looks darker than the rest
• Swelling or tenderness near the gums
• A pimple-like bump on the gums

At Southcoast Dental, we use advanced imaging and gentle techniques to identify when a root canal is needed—and make the process as smooth and pain-free as possible.

How Do I Tell If I Have an Abscess in My Tooth?

A dental abscess is a pocket of pus caused by infection—and it should be treated as soon as possible. Signs include:

• Intense, pulsing pain in a tooth or your jaw
• Swelling in your face or cheek
• Fever or general fatigue
• Bad taste in your mouth
• Enlarged or painful lymph nodes in your neck or jaw

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, contact our office immediately. We offer same-day emergency dental care during business hours and can often start treatment right away to prevent the infection from spreading.

What Happens If You Don’t Go to the Dentist for 3 Years?

Life gets busy, and it’s easy to put off your next cleaning or exam. But skipping dental visits for years can cause:

• Cavities that worsen without symptoms
• Plaque hardening into tartar, increasing the risk of gum disease
• Advanced periodontal disease that can lead to tooth loss
• Missed signs of oral cancer or systemic health issues
• More complex, costly treatment needs in the future

Routine visits help us catch issues early and use tools like CEREC and CBCT imaging to keep your treatment efficient and comfortable.

What Happens If Your Gum Grows Over Your Tooth?

If you’ve noticed gum tissue covering part of a tooth, it may be caused by:

• Hormonal changes
• Irritation from braces or dental appliances
• Poor oral hygiene or plaque buildup
• Certain medications

While it may not always be an emergency, overgrown gum tissue can trap bacteria and lead to infections. We offer laser gum therapy using LANAP technology for precise, gentle treatment that helps restore a healthy gum line.

How Long Will a Tooth Hurt Before the Nerve Dies?

Tooth pain may last anywhere from days to weeks, depending on the cause. If the pulp inside your tooth becomes infected or inflamed, the nerve may eventually die. At that point, you might feel temporary relief—but the tooth is still compromised and can become severely infected.

Early intervention is key. At Southcoast Dental, we use CBCT 3D imaging to spot problems inside your teeth before they get worse—and treat them with precision and comfort.

Why Preventative Visits Matter for Long-Term Health

Preventive dental care is more than just a cleaning—it’s a checkup for your whole body. Routine dental visits:

• Help detect early signs of decay, gum disease, or even oral cancer
• Prevent small issues from becoming costly, complex procedures
• Support overall health—since poor oral hygiene is linked to conditions like heart disease and diabetes
• Let us tailor care to your evolving needs, using the latest tools for efficiency and comfort

If it’s been a while since your last exam, there’s no judgment here—just a team ready to help you take control of your dental health.

Honest Answers for Better Dental Health in Wareham

If you’ve noticed any of the symptoms listed above—or even if you’re just overdue for a cleaning—Southcoast Dental is here to help. Led by Dr. James Kiehl, our Wareham, MA practice combines compassionate care with cutting-edge tools to make your visit stress-free and effective.

We’re open Monday through Friday and welcome same-day appointments for emergencies and urgent dental needs. Let’s work together to protect your smile.

Call today or book online to schedule your dental appointment at Southcoast Dental in Wareham, MA. We’re ready when you are.

Sources

• American Dental Association. “Action for Dental Health”
• Mayo Clinic. “Dental Abscess Symptoms & Treatment.”
• Cleveland Clinic. “Root Canal: What You Should Know.”