Generally, patients are advised to see a dentist twice a year for regular cleaning appointments and checkups. But sometimes, problems arise between these appointments, and you need to see a dentist more promptly. How do you know if a problem requires attention or if it can wait until your next scheduled checkup? These are eight signs you need to see a dentist soon.

1. You chip a tooth.

Even if the chipped tooth does not hurt, you should see a dentist. The rough edges of the chip make it likely to break away further, leading to more extensive damage. Your dentist can smooth it out with a file tool.

2. You have a spot on your teeth.

Spots on the teeth are usually cavities. By the time a cavity is visible, it is usually pretty bad -- so you need to have it filled before you have to replace the tooth or get a root canal.

3. Your tooth aches.

A toothache is often caused by an infection deep within the tooth root. The pain can become unbearable if you ignore the infection too long, and even worse, the infection can spread to other tissues like your skull and blood.

4. You lose a crown or filling.

If a crown or filing goes missing, you need to have the problem addressed quickly. The tooth beneath a crown is usually weak and may break without the support of a crown. Food can get stuck in the hole left behind by a cavity, leading to further decay.

5. Your teeth are very sensitive.

A tiny amount of sensitivity may just indicate that you have minor gum disease and need to floss more often. Serious sensitivity that makes it tough to eat anything that's not room temperature may indicate a cavity, tooth infection, or more serious gum problems.

6. You have a constant bad taste in your mouth.

A bad taste that won't go away could be caused by tooth decay that needs to be addressed before it spreads and causes pain.

7. You have a strange sore or raised bump in your mouth.

Not all bumps and sores are oral cancer, but some definitely are. The best way to know is to see your dentist, who can refer you to a specialist if needed.

8. You have pockets in your gums.

Pockets in your gums are a sign of very serious gum disease. Since food and bacteria get trapped in the pockets, you'll have a hard time beating this condition without professional treatment.

If there is any question as to whether or not you need dental care, play it safe and see a dentist. Your teeth have to last you the rest of your life, so it's smart to take good care of them. For more information, check out a website like https://www.allvalleydental.com/.