What Dentists See That Patients Don’t

February 23, 2026
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Posted By: Dr. John Chen

Did you know that your dentist can spot potential concerns in your mouth much earlier than you can? It's true!

That's because many tooth problems start long before the pain arrives, so you may not be aware of the issues happening in your mouth. In the world of dentistry, if you're feeling pain, the damage has already started. Your dentist can identify concerns before they become more serious and uncomfortable. Here's an example.

Understanding Tooth Decay

When tooth decay starts, it often progresses slowly and doesn't cause much pain at first. You may not even notice it, but your dentist will see it during your routine exam and x-ray. When they spot it early, you can likely treat it with a simple dental filling.

Let's say you miss your biannual appointment and wait another six months to see your dentist in Aurora. Now the decay has time to progress further into your tooth, eventually reaching the nerve and causing an infection. When this happens, you'll experience severe pain and possibly the kind of toothache that keeps you awake at night and away from your normal activities. If your tooth infection goes untreated, you could risk losing your tooth. 

To manage a tooth infection, you'll need a more complex procedure to eliminate it and protect your tooth. Root canal treatment does this and also preserves your natural tooth structure, helping you avoid an extraction and the need for tooth replacement.  

Talk with Your Dentist in Aurora, CO

So, now you understand the importance of seeing your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups since they can help you protect your smile (and your wallet). 

If it's time for your next dental appointment, you can contact Uptown Comprehensive Dentistry and Prosthodontics at (303) 627-5755 to schedule. You can also request a visit with our dentists online.