When Should You See a Dentist? Common Signs for Families to Watch For
by Dr. Erin Elliott | 21 January, 2025

Regular dental care is essential for maintaining a healthy smile at any age. But life gets busy—especially for families juggling school schedules, sports practices, and work commitments. At Post Falls Family Dental, we understand that knowing when to make a dental appointment can sometimes fall to the wayside. That's why we're here to help your entire family stay on top of their oral health with this guide to recognizing the signs that it’s time to schedule a visit to the dentist.
Whether it’s you, your partner, or your kids, paying attention to these common dental symptoms can help prevent small issues from becoming bigger (and more costly) problems. Here’s what to look for and how our services can help.
1. Persistent Tooth Pain or Sensitivity
Tooth pain or sensitivity is one of the most obvious signs that something might be wrong. If you or a family member feels a sharp pain when eating or drinking hot, cold, or sugary foods, it could be a sign of:
- Cavities
- Cracked or chipped teeth
- Exposed tooth roots
These issues are best addressed early to prevent further complications. At Post Falls Family Dental, we offer comprehensive restorative dentistry to repair damage and alleviate pain, including fillings, crowns, and root canals.
2. Bleeding or Swollen Gums
Do you notice blood when you brush or floss? Bleeding gums can indicate gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease. Left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more severe condition that can lead to tooth loss.
Swollen or red gums are also a common sign that your kids may not be brushing effectively or flossing at all. Regular check-ups allow us to catch gum issues early and provide guidance on proper oral hygiene for every family member. Learn more about how we treat gum disease on our general dentistry page.
3. Bad Breath That Won’t Go Away
Persistent bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be caused by poor oral hygiene, cavities, gum disease, or even underlying health conditions. While mouthwash or mints may mask the odor temporarily, it’s essential to address the root cause.
At Post Falls Family Dental, we can identify and treat the source of bad breath, whether it’s tooth decay, gum disease, or something else, ensuring everyone in your family has fresh, healthy smiles.
4. Loose or Shifting Teeth
For kids, losing baby teeth is a natural part of growing up. But for adults, loose or shifting teeth could signal a serious issue like gum disease or bone loss. These problems require prompt attention to avoid further damage or tooth loss.
If you notice that your child’s permanent teeth are coming in crooked or if you’re dealing with dental alignment issues yourself, we also offer orthodontic options, including Six Month Smiles® and Invisalign®, to help straighten smiles for the whole family.
5. White Spots or Discoloration on Teeth
White spots on teeth can be an early sign of tooth decay, especially in children. Discoloration in adults might indicate decay, staining from foods and drinks, or even enamel erosion. Regular dental cleanings and preventive care can keep these issues in check.
At Post Falls Family Dental, we recommend bi-annual cleanings to remove plaque buildup and catch early signs of decay. Check out our preventive dentistry services to learn more.
6. Difficulty Chewing or Jaw Pain
If someone in your family experiences difficulty chewing, jaw pain, or clicking sounds when opening their mouth, it could indicate temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. TMJ issues can lead to headaches, muscle tension, and more serious complications if left untreated.
We offer specialized care to diagnose and manage TMJ issues, helping you or your loved ones enjoy pain-free eating and speaking again.
7. Mouth Sores or Lesions That Don’t Heal
Mouth sores are common, but sores that don’t heal within two weeks may require professional evaluation. This could be a sign of an infection, irritation, or even something more serious like oral cancer.
During regular exams, we perform oral cancer screenings to ensure your family’s health is always our top priority.
8. Dry Mouth
Dry mouth, or xerostomia, can occur for various reasons, such as medication side effects or dehydration. While it might seem harmless, dry mouth can lead to increased plaque buildup, tooth decay, and gum disease.
If you or your partner notices persistent dry mouth, we can help identify the cause and recommend solutions to protect your oral health.
9. Teeth Grinding or Clenching
Teeth grinding (bruxism) is common in both adults and children, often occurring during sleep. If you notice your child grinding their teeth at night or wake up with jaw pain, it’s essential to address the issue before it leads to tooth wear or TMJ problems.
We provide custom-made mouthguards to protect teeth from grinding and clenching, ensuring healthier, pain-free smiles.
10. Overdue for a Check-Up
Sometimes, the best reason to see a dentist is simply that it’s been too long since your last visit. Routine check-ups are crucial for detecting issues early and preventing future problems.
At Post Falls Family Dental, we recommend dental visits every six months for the entire family. Regular cleanings and exams help keep everyone’s teeth and gums in top condition while giving us a chance to provide personalized advice for better oral hygiene at home.
Make Dental Health a Family Priority
Your family’s oral health is too important to ignore. At Post Falls Family Dental, we’re here to provide compassionate, comprehensive care for everyone—from the youngest members of your family to the adults who keep everything running smoothly. With a welcoming environment and a full range of services, we strive to make every visit stress-free and effective.
Links to Our Services:
- General Dentistry Services
- Preventive Dentistry Services
- Restorative Dentistry Services
- Cosmetic Dentistry Services
Ready to Schedule Your Family’s Next Visit?
If you or someone in your family is experiencing any of the signs mentioned above—or if it’s simply time for your regular check-up—don’t wait. Contact Post Falls Family Dental today to schedule an appointment. Call us at 208.773.4579 or visit our contact page to get started. Let’s work together to ensure your family enjoys healthy, confident smiles for years to come!