
Dentist
Visiting the dentist may not be everyone’s favorite activity, but it is integral to maintaining good oral health. Neglecting to go to the dentist can result in bad oral health, impacting more than just your smile. And since teeth are essential to our overall health, going to the dentist regularly will keep your teeth and body healthy.
Despite the importance of regular dental check-ups, many people avoid them due to anxiety, cost, or time constraints. Neglecting dentist visits can end up causing you a lot of problems throughout your life. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of regular dental check-ups and why you shouldn’t skip them.
1 – Preventive care
It seems we only go to the local emergency dentist Chandler AZ when we have a toothache. The ideal thing to do is to go to the dentist before you have any problems. During a dental check-up, a dental hygienist will typically clean your teeth, remove any plaque or tartar buildup, and polish your teeth. Your dentist will also examine your teeth, gums, and mouth for any signs of oral health issues.
Preventative care can also include other treatments or procedures that help protect your teeth and gums from damage or decay. For example, fluoride treatments can strengthen teeth and help prevent cavities, and dental sealants can provide an extra layer of protection against decay.
Regular dental check-ups and preventative care can help prevent common oral health issues, such as cavities and gum disease, from developing in the first place.
2 – Early detection
Regular dental check-ups are also important for detecting oral health issues early, before they become more serious and difficult to treat. Not every oral health problem causes pain so you may not be aware you have a problem. During a dental exam, your dentist will look for signs of oral health issues such as cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer.
Cavities, for example, can be detected early through regular dental X-rays and exams. Your dentist can then recommend treatments such as fillings or crowns to prevent further decay and preserve the affected tooth.
Gum disease is another common oral health issue that can be detected early through regular dental check-ups. If caught early, gum disease can often be treated with non-invasive methods such as scaling and root planing, which involve deep cleaning of the teeth and gums.
3 – Cancer screening
Oral cancer is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that affects the mouth and throat. While the risk of developing oral cancer is relatively low, it is important to be aware of the risk factors and to get screened regularly. It’s very important to catch any type of cancer early so a regular checkup could be a life-saving event. However, according to Best Cosmetic Dentistry Tallahassee, your risk is higher if you’re a smoker.
During an oral cancer screening, your dentist will examine your mouth and look for any abnormalities such as sores or lesions. They may also feel the tissues in your mouth and throat for any lumps or irregularities.