Getting your teeth checked and cleaned regularly is very important for not only your oral health but also your overall health. The term ‘regularly’ varies from patient to patient. Some patients, such as smokers, diabetics, people with current dental disease, and people who are more prone to plaque buildup, are at higher risk of dental disease and should visit the dentist more often. On average, people who are not in this high risk group can schedule visits twice a year for a proper exam and cleaning. During these regular check ups, make sure to tell your dentist if you have had any changes in your health status. This is important so that they are aware of any new medical conditions or issues you are experiencing with your teeth or mouth. The exam will consist of a thorough cleaning to remove plaque followed by an examination by the dentist to check your teeth, gums, and mouth while looking for signs of disease. X-Rays are also taken to examine the teeth and jaw better. These visits are important because they:
Help To Brighten Your Teeth
Over time your teeth become discolored and dull due to stains from certain foods and drinks we consume. Tea, wine, coffee, and tobacco all cause dark stains on the teeth leaving people embarrassed of their smile. Visiting the dentist regularly can help to remove these stains providing a brighter and whiter smile.
Prevent Bad Breath
Bad breath is caused by poor oral hygiene, gum disease, and even food being lodged in hard to reach areas in your mouth. All of these things can be prevented with regular dentist visits and improved dental hygiene.
Help To Prevent Gum Disease
Getting your teeth cleaned and having plaque removed by your dentist helps to prevent gum disease and tooth decay which can eventually lead to tooth loss. Plaque can be removed by brushing and flossing at home but most importantly, regular dentist visits.
Detect Problems Early On
If there are any problems with any previous dental work, the earlier it is detected the better. Early detection can deter you from experiencing a lot of pain and preventing the problem from getting worse. In addition to dental problems, the dentist can also detect other health problems through your gums such as oral cancers, diabetes, and even anemia. If detected in the early stages through a routine check up, most of these cancers and diseases can be curable.
Benefit Your Health
Poor oral health has been proven to lead to bone loss, cardiovascular diseases, types of cancer, and many other health issues, especially heart disease, strokes, and diabetes . By visiting your dentist regularly and keeping up with good oral hygiene you can help avoid these problems.
Save Money
Visiting your dentist more frequently and possibly catching these health problems in the early stages can be less expensive. Prevention will cost less than it would if you detected a health problem at a later more advanced stage. In the long run, neglecting your teeth and oral health can lead to more expenses that can be avoided by regularly visiting your dentist.
