A lot of people wait until something feels really wrong before calling the dentist — but that can be a costly mistake. Not every problem shows up as pain, and some issues get worse quietly until they suddenly need major treatment. That’s why it’s important to pay attention to the early signs that something’s off.

Here are five signs that shouldn’t be ignored — and that usually mean it’s time to book a dental appointment sooner rather than later.

Bleeding When You Brush or Floss

A bit of blood in the sink might not seem like a big deal, but if your gums bleed regularly while brushing or flossing, it’s a warning sign. Healthy gums don’t bleed. This could be a sign of gum inflammation or the early stages of gum disease.

If left alone, it can progress and cause lasting damage to your teeth and gums. It’s better to catch it early, before it turns into something that requires more than just a clean.

Bad Breath That Won’t Go Away

Everyone gets bad breath now and then, but if yours sticks around no matter how much you brush, it could mean there’s an underlying issue. Ongoing bad breath can be caused by plaque build-up, gum disease, tooth decay or even an infection.

A dentist can identify what’s causing it and help clear it up properly. Masking it with mouthwash won’t fix the problem if it’s coming from deep in the gums or between the teeth.

Pain That Comes and Goes

Tooth pain doesn’t have to be constant to be serious. In fact, pain that comes and goes — whether it’s sharp, dull, or triggered by hot or cold drinks — can point to problems like nerve exposure, decay or cracks in the tooth. These are issues that usually get worse over time and don’t go away on their own.

Even if the pain settles down, the problem causing it may still be there. Seeing a dentist in Darlinghurst early can help prevent it from becoming something that needs a filling, root canal or extraction later on.

Sensitivity to Hot or Cold

A quick sting when drinking something cold might seem harmless, but if it keeps happening, there could be a reason. Tooth sensitivity can mean enamel has worn down or that gum recession is exposing part of the tooth that should be protected.

Sometimes, it’s a sign of early decay or a crack you can’t see. Your dentist can check what’s causing the sensitivity and suggest treatment options to stop it from getting worse.

A Tooth That Feels ‘Different’

You know your mouth better than anyone. If something feels off — a tooth that seems loose, a spot that feels rough, or a change in how your bite lines up — it’s worth checking out. Even if there’s no pain, these small changes can be early signs of damage or shifting teeth.

These kinds of issues are easier to treat if they’re found early. Waiting until they hurt often means a bigger problem, and a longer (and more expensive) fix.

When in Doubt, Get It Checked

It’s easy to brush these signs off or hope they’ll go away on their own, but they rarely do. The sooner you act, the simpler the fix usually is. A quick visit can give you answers, peace of mind, and help you avoid more complicated treatment down the line.

If you’re noticing any of these signs, or it’s just been a while since your last check-up, your local Darlinghurst dental clinic is ready to help. Early care is the best care — and your future self will thank you for it.