We all know that visiting the dentist twice a year is recommended, but life gets busy. It's easy to let that six-month check-up slide to eight months, then twelve, then... well, you get the idea. But regular check-ups aren't just for cleaning; they are the single best way to catch dental problems before they become painful, expensive, or irreversible.

Don't wait for a throbbing toothache to be your only signal. Your body often gives subtle warnings that it's time to see a professional. Here are five common signs that you're overdue for a dental visit.