A Veteran Dentist Explains Why You Shouldn't Skip Your Dental Checkups.

From the time you were young, you probably heard that everyone over the age of one should see the dentist at least twice a year. You may be wondering why that is since a majority of the time your teeth are okay. Most people dread going to the dentist, but those who do not go may regret their decision later in life. So, why is it important and what happens during these visits? We will discuss that below.

What Happens During A Six Month Dental Visit?

To keep your smile as perfect as it is, this is paramount. Some of the things that you should expect during your visit are outlined below.

• A Thorough Physical Examination.

Your teeth and gums will be looked at extensively to ensure that they are in good condition. Any signs of decay, gum disease or even oral cancer will be checked and established. Any dental issues that you may have will be pointed out when they are still small and manageable. It will be better for you since it will mean that there will be less invasive treatments, you will spend less time on that dental chair that you are afraid of and also the money you spend will be less as compared to when it is detected late.

• Professional Dental Cleaning.

You may be brushing your teeth thrice a day, but you will always find that some areas have been missed once you go to the dentist. Plaque can occur on the hard to reach areas which may require the dentist to do it since they have the appropriate tools for the task. You should note that plaque that remains on the teeth even after thorough brushing turns to tartar which cannot be removed at home. It is more severe and will require to be removed by a professional. Having your six-month visit will reduce the chances of you having gum disease since the plaque and tartar will be removed.

• X-Rays Will Be Performed.

These will be done to check for the small cavities and enamel wear that occurs due to the grinding of teeth. These x-rays are also done to verify that the wisdom teeth are growing correctly as they are supposed to. They pinpoint all the small problems that cannot be seen with our naked eye.

Here's Why Dentists recommend it.

Skipping these check-ups may have some consequences that are serious and also unsightly. These are some of the reasons you should not skip them.

• To Keep Your Teeth.

On a daily basis, your teeth face many threats to their stability. The enamel can be eroded due to the advancement of gum disease. The bone that anchors the teeth may be weakened, and this may lead to the loss of one. The best way to protect your teeth from this is to see a dentist regularly for treatment and also cleaning. Most people think that brushing their teeth periodically solves the problem. However, this is not the case since you will only see what is in the mirror, hence some areas will be neglected. Tooth decay can be spotted early if you visit regularly and to prevent any further damage, you may be advised on how to improve your brushing technique, using a fluoride mouthwash, using floss or even changing g your diet. The enamel is usually fortified by the professional by some topical fluoride treatments that are very powerful hence the teeth are protected from decay and also protecting you from the risk of having to remove your affected teeth if they are damaged beyond repair. Doing this is the best way to ensure that you eliminate the need of using dentures later on in life.

• To Improve Your Overall Health.

Poor oral health can lead to some adverse body health effects such as in the cardiovascular region. There have been several studies that have linked gum disease and stroke, heart disease and also in some cases, early labor in expectant women. Lack of proper brushing causes gum disease since their health is neglected. The bacteria from the plaque that is in the teeth can enter the bloodstream through these gums and cause infections. It is why removing plaque is essential and also having the gums checked.

• To Maintain A Fresh Breath.

Nothing can put people off than bad breath. People will not take you seriously and will label you as a dirty person. The build-up of bacteria in the mouth can cause this awful breath. Mouthwash may be an excellent solution to this problem but at times seeing a professional may be required. The mouth will be cleaned thoroughly hence the bacterias will be no more. Plaque and other germs that may be in those hard to reach areas causing you to have bad breath are removed, and you are left with a fresh feeling.

• To Detect Oral Cancer.

The same way that regular screenings are required to check for cancer is the same for dental check-ups. Most people think that only tobacco users and smokers are the ones vulnerable to this cancer which is not the case. Oral cancers are caused by a virus called HPV, which can be also be found in the mouths of people who refrain from smoking. The sad thing is that this cancer is very dangerous, aggressive and even deadly since most people do not seek help until it is too late. The symptoms come in the later stages hence going to see a dentist early may help you in beating this disease, if you have it.

• Educate You On Good Oral Habits.

It is only from having these visits that the dentist will educate you on how to keep your teeth in their best condition and prevent damage. Those with some bad oral habits such as smoking, those that eat too much of sweets, drink a lot of coffee, or red wine should not miss these appointments since they will be given options of dealing with them to have healthy teeth.

When it comes to oral health, we are recommended to be proactive. The only way to have good dental hygiene and prevent yourself from having oral diseases is by ensuring that you spare time for dental check-ups in your busy routine.