While for some people it may be difficult to visit the dentist even once a year, the American Dental Association recommends individuals see a dentist every six months. Scheduling a routine cleaning and dental exam twice a year is crucial to maintaining optimal oral health. Here are four important reasons you shouldn’t put off dental appointments.
Remove Plaque and Tartar build-up
Despite our best efforts, removing every trace of plaque from our teeth when brushing is a challenging task. When plaque lingers between our teeth or accumulates at the rear of our mouths for extended periods, it gradually transforms into tartar—a dense, calcified substance that adheres to our teeth and contributes to gum disease. Tartar cannot be eliminated with a toothbrush and necessitates the use of specialized tools in the dentist’s office for removal. Therefore, it’s crucial to maintain regular dental visits to have this harmful substance removed before it causes more significant harm.
Prevent Gum Disease
Similar to cavities, periodontal (gum) disease often flies under the radar as it remains painless during its initial stages. This condition stems from the gradual deterioration of gum tissues and leads to an infection at the interface between the tooth and gums. Importantly, periodontal disease doesn’t solely impact the gum tissue; it can also undermine the integrity of the bone that supports the teeth in their rightful positions. Additionally, this condition may give rise to more severe complications like heart disease and respiratory ailments. Thankfully, regular dental visits offer a solution to prevent these issues.
Early Detection of Oral Cancer
Regular dental check-ups are not just about keeping your teeth and gums healthy; they also play a crucial role in early detection and prevention of oral cancer. Dentists are trained to examine the entire oral cavity, including the lips, tongue, cheeks and the back of the throat, for any signs of abnormal growths, discoloration, or suspicious lesions. Oral cancer can often develop without causing noticeable symptoms in its early stages, making early detection crucial for successful treatment.
Early Detection of Dental Issues
Dental X-rays are helpful in catching dental issues that cannot be spotted by a visual examination alone. They show everything extending from the tip of the roots to the underlying bone beneath your gums. X-rays enable dentists to screen for a wide array of conditions, ranging from simple cavities and the extent of decay to gum disease, bone loss, cysts, abscesses and other abnormalities that can be detected at an early stage.
If it has been more than six months since your last visit to the dentist, schedule an appointment with our team! Beall Dental Center is here to keep your smile healthy!
