Even though good home care is important, general dentistry checkups are still essential for healthy teeth and gums. Time and research have shown that seeing a dentist every six months can help improve your oral health. There are numerous benefits that come from seeing a dentist on a regular basis, while failing to do so could increase your risks for complications.
Even if your teeth appear to be healthy and you have not noticed any troublesome symptoms, you should have your teeth checked and cleaned at least twice a year. Doing so can be very beneficial for your dental and overall health.
Your teeth develop a film of plaque from the foods and beverages you consume. If this plaque is not removed by brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar buildup. Tartar cannot be removed by brushing alone and requires professional cleaning for thorough and safe removal.
Tartar buildup increases the risks of developing cavities and gum disease. When left untreated, tooth decay can lead to infection or tooth loss. Gum disease can also cause these problems, along with increasing your risks for other serious health conditions, including:
Seeing a dentist can help reduce the unnecessary risks for potentially harmful health conditions.
Plaque and tartar buildup can do more than cause cavities and decay. They can also lead to staining and unsightly tooth discoloration. Routine cleanings can prevent this for a whiter, brighter, and more beautiful smile.
If you are dealing with decay or gum disease, the sooner you receive treatment, the more likely you are to have better options. Minor cavities may only need a sealant or a small filling. The early stages of gum disease may only require deep cleaning. However, if you wait too long to be seen by a dentist, you may require more invasive dental work, such as crowns, root canals, or even tooth extraction.
Routine general dentistry checkups are not just about cleanings. At these appointments, dentists conduct important tests and screenings to evaluate dental health below the surface. Simple visual exams and X-rays can often lead to the early detection of serious issues, including oral cancer and bone loss. The earlier these conditions are diagnosed, the better the chances of a positive outcome.
People of all ages should see a dentist twice a year starting around age 1. These checkups help patients learn to be more comfortable at the office and can help prevent or reduce dental anxiety. Waiting to see a dentist until serious work is needed can make dental anxiety worse.
Even people with strong and healthy teeth should see a dental professional every six months. If you are tempted to skip an appointment, remember the benefits you can forfeit and the risks you will assume in doing so. See a dentist on a regular basis for better oral and overall health.
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