The need for maintaining good oral health cannot be emphasized enough. Oral health involves your gums, teeth, and the oral-facial system that enables you to chew, speak or smile. Unfortunately, several factors can compromise your oral health and lead to tooth decay, oral cancer, and gum disease. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDCP), about 80% of adults experience at least one cavity before hitting 34 years. This proves that oral health problems are quite common and we all need to go for dental check-ups at least every six months Go to the Dentist .
Here are more reasons why you need to visit your dentist regularly.
Dental Examination
Once you get to the dentist’s chair, they will examine your gums, teeth, and mouth during the dental check-up. This is because they will be looking for signs that could indicate problems like cavities, gum disease, tooth decay, oral cancer, and other issues that may require treatment.
If you display any of these signs, expect the dentist to discuss treatment options with you.
Something like a cavity that is in the early stages may only require a filling, but it can worsen and require root canal therapy if left untreated. But if you have a more complex condition like severe gum disease, your dentist may recommend surgery.
Dental Cleaning
Dental cleaning is a very important part of a dental checkup. The dentist can help remove plaque and tartar during teeth cleaning that you cannot remove at home.
Plaque is a sticky film that consists of bacteria, food debris, and saliva. Tartar buildup can lead to tooth decay and, eventually, a cavity. Even if you brush your teeth twice daily and floss regularly, the hard-to-reach places in your mouth won’t be cleaned unless you go in for a professional cleaning.
As such, dental cleaning is a core part of preventive dental care programs so try and look up dentists offering dental cleaning near me.
Dental Polishing
Dental polishing is a routine procedure that you may receive at the end of your dental check-up. It is highly recommended for people with sensitive gums or a history of gum diseases like gingivitis.
The process involves using a high-speed electric brush to polish your teeth. The toothpaste used in this brushing is usually flavored and contains mild abrasives that help remove stains and plaque from your teeth.
Examine Your Mouth for Signs of Oral Cancer
During the dental check-up, your dentist will examine the soft tissues in your mouth for any unusual changes that could be a sign of oral cancer. The disease is highly treatable if caught early enough. Your dentist will also check the lymph nodes in your neck for any signs of swelling that might also be an early sign of cancer
The Bottom Line
Seeing a dentist every six months may seem hectic or costly but keep in mind that the inconveniences are minimal compared to the risk of dentures or root canals which would be more expensive for you and potentially more painful. That said, try and find a good dentist near you who you can see every six months.
