Here are some common signs of tooth problems that one should be aware of so that they can possibly prevent one or more of these dental emergencies:

• Abscess or Toothache – These can happen for a number of reasons: cavities from tooth decay and gum disease are the primary culprits. If there’s a fever, then chances are good that it’s an abscess… and antibiotics may be required.
• Bad Breath – This goes beyond typical morning breath. A variety of things can cause this – including poor saliva production or cancer or even possibly an infection. If it’s still noticeable after proper brushing and flossing, it’s time for a dental professional to take a look.
• Bleeding or Sore Gums – Blood on the toothbrush or in the sink can be a worrisome sight. It can be caused by things like brushing too hard or not flossing often enough – both of which are easily corrected. It should not be ignored since it can lead to gum disease or worse – possible infection and tooth loss.
• Cracked Teeth – Teeth are extremely strong – they have to be to withstand all the chewing and biting that’s required of them over the course of one’s day. They can also be cracked due to things like fillings that are too large or if one bites down on a lot of hard candy or ice cubes. Treatment can include tooth extraction or a root canal, depending on the severity of the damage.
• Discolored Teeth -There are many reasons teeth can get stained. Aging, the dentin in one’s tooth disappears, resulting in darker teeth. Heavy coffee or tea drinkers may see yellow teeth. People can choose from plenty of whitening solutions both over-the-counter and at the dentist’s office.
• Dry Mouth – This can be caused by several different things: certain illnesses and types of medication. Saliva is what helps prevent tooth decay, so it’s dangerous when it’s gone since plaque buildup and infection can occur quickly:
• Jaw Pain or Cracking – Pinpointing the actual cause can be difficult – there are a wide range of culprits – from arthritis to TMJ. Your dental professional may have to look at X-Rays to be able to narrow down the diagnostic possibilities.
• Mouth Sores – Eating too much of a certain food can cause sores. So can illness and irritation from braces can be the source. If the sore lasts more than a week, see a dentist.
• Sensitive Teeth – This is most noticed after drinking a hot or cold beverage. Multiple things, from cracked teeth to receding gums could be the cause. There are toothpastes and mouthwashes that can treat the symptoms.

It’s important to go see a dental professional as soon as possible. Waiting it out and hoping it will get better on its own is a horrible idea because gum disease and infection can rapidly worsen … and sometimes become incurable. What happens next in the dentist’s office depends on which of the above scenarios occurred and what has happened since then. Treatments can range from scaling and root planing (also known as “Deep Cleaning”) to extraction and subsequent dental implants or dentures.

The best way to give oneself a chance to keep any of these from possibly occurring is proper oral hygiene. That means proper – flossing first, then two minutes of brushing, preferably with a toothbrush.