Warning Signs That It’s Time to Visit the Dentist

by | Published on Jun 15, 2023 | Podcasts, Dental Billing & Coding (P) | 0 comments

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Outsource Strategies International (OSI) is a professional dental billing company based in the U.S. We have extensive experience assisting dental practices with patient eligibility verification, billing and coding, claim submission, and healthcare receivable management. Our knowledgeable team is well-versed in coding various dental conditions using the appropriate CDT codes.

In today’s podcast, Amber Darst, one of our Solutions Managers, discusses warning signs that indicate that it may be time to visit the dentist.

Podcast Highlights

00:17 Common Warning Signs

02:37 Importance of Regular Dental Checkups

Read Transcript

Hi, this is Amber Darst, Solutions Manager here at Managed Outsource Solutions. And today, I’ll be discussing the importance of regular dental checkups and recognizing warning signs that indicate that it may be time to visit the dentist.

00:17 Common Warning Signs of Dental Problems

Here’s a brief list of just a few of the common warning signs that should prompt you to schedule a dental consultation. Being aware of these signs can help you address dental issues early on and maintain a healthy smile.

First is the most obvious, which is tooth pain or sensitivity. Persistent tooth pain to hot or cold temperatures may indicate tooth decay, cavities, or an underlying infection. Consulting a dentist is crucial to identify and address the root cause of the pain.

Next we have bleeding or swollen gums. Healthy gums should not bleed or appear swollen. If you notice any bleeding or swelling while brushing or flossing, or during your regular activities, it may indicate gum disease or gingivitis. Seeking prompt dental attention is necessary to prevent any further gum damage and evaluate your overall oral tissue health.

Persistent bad breath. Occasional bad breath is normal, but persistent or chronic bad breath, also known as heliotosis, could be a sign of an underlying dental condition such as gum disease, cavities, or dry mouth. A dentist can evaluate the cause and provide appropriate treatment and oral hygiene recommendations.

Next we have loose or missing teeth. Adult teeth should never feel loose or shift out of position. Any changes in tooth stability or tooth loss due to trauma or other reasons require immediate consultation with a dentist. Timely intervention can prevent further tooth loss and explore suitable treatment options such as dental implants or dentures.

And then we have changes in your oral tissue. Regular self-examination of oral tissue is essential to detect any changes. White or red patches, sores that don’t heal within a few weeks or any unusual lumps or growths must be evaluated by a dentist. Early detection of these changes may significantly approve treatment outcomes, especially if they may indicate oral cancer or another serious condition.

02:37 Importance of Regular Dental Checkups

Remember that oral health is crucial for your overall well-being. Paying attention to these warning signs is vital for maintaining a healthy smile. Regular dental checkups and addressing dental issues promptly can prevent further complications and ensure a confident and healthy smile for years to come.

Please refer to the attached article for the full list of common warning signs and more on this topic.

And that’s it for today.

Thanks for listening in.

Amber Darst

Amber Darst is our Solutions Manager in the Healthcare Division, Practice and RCM. With a rich background in dental services, her expertise ranges from insurance coordination to office management.

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