You may not think that visiting the dentist is that important. After all, you aren’t feeling any pain. However, there are many different reasons that attending your six-month appointments is crucial to the health of your smile and the rest of your body. Continue reading to learn more about why scheduling regular cleanings twice a year is so important.
Preventing Tooth Decay
Even if you are diligent about brushing your teeth twice and flossing once daily, there are still going to be places that you’re missing. When the plaque builds up, it will eventually turn into tartar which is very difficult to remove without the help of your dentist or hygienist. When you visit the office every six months, you will have the excess plaque and tartar removed from your teeth, therefore reducing your risk of cavities.
Preventing Gum Disease
When you go to your appointment, your dental team is trained to check for early signs of gum disease. When it is caught early and you make the necessary changes, it is possible to restore it back to health. If your gum disease has progressed, you will require other treatments to prevent it from worsening and causing tooth loss and other issues.
Learning from Your Dentist
Many different habits have a negative impact on your dental health. This includes chewing ice, smoking, biting your nails, clenching your jaw, grinding your teeth, brushing too vigorously, and eating certain foods. When you see your dentist, he checks for issues caused by habits like these and can educate you about the changes you should make for your oral health.
Routine X-Rays
During your appointment, you are given a routine X-Ray to catch issues that cannot always be seen by the naked eye. This could be impacted wisdom teeth, bone decay, swelling, cysts, or tumors. Finding these issues is the first step in treating them so you can stay healthy.
Oral Cancer Screening
This is a very serious disease that can be fatal if left untreated. When you go in for your checkups, your dentist will check for early signs of oral cancer. Early detection is key in order to make a full recovery. If you don’t notice any irregularities, your dentist will. Going in for regular visits isn’t just to keep your teeth clean. It can save your life!
Checking for Other Abnormalities
During your visit, your dentist will also check your head, neck, and lymph nodes for other abnormalities. If one is found, it could be a sign of a major health issue somewhere else in the body. Your dentist will be able to alert you and refer you to the correct medical professional so that you can be treated properly.
Even if your dental appointments seem like an inconvenience, it’s extremely important for your oral and overall health. Taking this step now can make a huge difference for a long and healthy future.
About the Author
Dr. Ramandeep Badhan is a dentist serving patients in the Cambria, CA area. He completed his Bachelor’s in Dental Surgery in India before attending New York University School of Dentistry and earning his Doctor of Dental Surgery. He is a member of several professional organizations including the American Dental Association and the Central Coast Dental Society. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call (805) 927-4811.