Having to go to the dentist every six months may not be the most exciting appointment, but it is one of the most important ones to keep. If you’ve ever wondered what the point of having a regular dental checkup and cleaning is, we’ve got something for you to consider.
If you are thinking about skipping a dental checkup due to cost or another factor such as time or dental anxiety, make sure to weigh all of the risks. What you may end up paying in the long run for not visiting your dentist is likely to be much higher, both financially and in terms of your peace of mind.
Reasons why a dental checkup is important:
Plaque and Tartar detection:
Even if you brush and floss on a regular basis, you may accumulate plaque in certain areas of your mouth. Some areas are more difficult to clean than others, and getting checked by a professional doctor on a regular basis reduces the chances of tartar hardening into calculus.
If there are any areas that need to be cleaned, your doctor can advise you on how to improve your oral hygiene and motivate you to do so. This will undoubtedly improve your overall hygiene in the long run.
Prevent periodontal disease:
Periodontal disease can develop when plaque and tartar buildup along the gum line go untreated for an extended period of time. Bacteria present in the gums can travel throughout the body, triggering inflammation in the heart’s vessels and infection in the heart valves.
Gum disease can be avoided by practicing good at-home oral hygiene and making wise dietary choices (e.g., limiting sugar consumption), but regular dental checkups are also necessary.
Prevent tooth decay:
Tooth decay occurs when the teeth’s outermost layer (known as the dental enamel) begins to erode. This happens as a result of an acidic reaction caused by bacteria and particles from food, drinks, and other sources. A dental exam detects early signs of tooth decay and can help prevent it by strengthening weakened enamel.
Oral cancer screening:
It is not uncommon to hear about the occurrence of oral cancer these days. It is always preferable to make a diagnosis as soon as possible for a better treatment outcome.
A routine dental health examination ensures that the tissue in and around the oral cavity is thoroughly examined to rule out cancer. Cancer is a very serious condition that should not be taken lightly; regular checkups are required to rule out any possibility.
Detection of problems with X-rays:
X-rays are a major part of a routine dental checkup because they allow your dentist to examine what is under the surface that the naked eye cannot always perceive.
A normal X-ray scan may reveal that a wisdom tooth is emerging in the wrong direction due to a space limitation, or that decay is visible in between teeth. It is always better to be detected early than to wait for the pain to become unbearable. Many cysts, cancers, and lesions are also visible on X-ray, making it a useful diagnostic tool.
Educate about oral care:
Dentists can educate the patient on how to enhance their home oral care regimen in order to keep a healthy and beautiful smile between dental checkups. Dentists and dental professionals are concerned with more than just tooth repair. They clean your teeth professionally,
check for abnormalities that might otherwise go unnoticed and could be a sign of bigger health issues, and ensure your teeth and gums are healthy. Dental professionals, among other things, ensure that your bones are strong and will assist you in correcting any habits that may be ruining your oral health.
Dental Checkup Summary:
Skipping dental appointments may not seem like a big deal, but oral issues can develop and progress quickly, whether you notice them or not. Keeping up with your dental cleanings and checkups will do you a world of good in the long run.
