We have all heard that going to the dentist frequently is a good practice. But why are regular dental checkups so important? In this article, we discuss the numerous benefits of regular dental visits.
Why Regular Dental Checkups Are So Important
Dentists recommend having checkups every 6 months. You may need more regular checkups if you have gum disease, weakened enamel, or teeth that are prone to cavities. Regular checkups are essential because they allow you to:
- Maintain good oral health and hygiene
- Spot potential oral health issues
- Avoid complex treatments in the future
- Save money and time in the long run
What Happens During a Dental Checkup?
During a checkup, your dentist thoroughly examines your teeth and gums and may conduct X-rays or scans if necessary to determine if any signs of infection or enamel damage are present. Typically, X-rays or scans are not needed at every visit, provided you have regular checkups twice a year.
This examination allows your doctor to spot potential oral health issues before they become severe. Early stages of decay and gum disease can be treated with simple procedures, such as professional cleanings and dental fillings, as opposed to more advanced treatments like root canals, dental crowns, or implants, which may be necessary for more severe stages of decay and disease. Needless to say, dental implants, for instance, are much more expensive and time-consuming than dental fillings.
It is also important to remember that gum disease, one of the most common oral health issues in adults, is only fully treatable in its earliest stages. Once it advances, it can only be managed and kept from advancing further, but not entirely reversed. Gum disease is damaging not only to your oral health but can also lead to tooth loss and is closely associated with heart, lung, and joint issues. That is why it is essential to identify the problem before it becomes chronic and treat it promptly.
Why Regular Professional Cleanings and Fluoride Treatments Are Important?
Typically, dental checkups are combined with professional cleanings and fluoride treatments that further enhance your oral and general health.
Professional Cleanings
Plaque can accumulate on and between your teeth, especially in hard-to-reach areas in your mouth, even if your at-home daily oral hygiene is good. If plaque is not removed regularly, it hardens and turns into tartar, which is impossible to remove without professional dental equipment.
Plaque and tartar are acidic and filled with bacteria. Both acid and bacteria, when not entirely removed from the teeth and gums, destroy enamel and cause gum inflammation over time. During a professional cleaning, your doctor will be able to effectively remove plaque, tartar, and food residue from your teeth. A professional cleaning can also help remove surface stains.
Fluoride Treatments
Fluoride is widely used in dentistry because it has been proven to be effective in enamel remineralization, making teeth more resilient to bacteria, and also helping to reduce bacterial growth in the mouth overall.
Fluoride treatments are most effective when done immediately after a professional cleaning. During this procedure, your dentist applies a fluoride solution in the form of gel, paste, or on special trays to your teeth. Typically, the procedure takes only a few minutes and causes no discomfort. It is recommended to have professional fluoride treatments every 6 months.
Get a Dental Checkup at Smile World Dental
Do not hesitate to schedule a checkup with a top-rated dentist at Smile World Dental today. At our office, we utilize modern diagnostic and treatment methods to help you maintain good oral health. We are looking forward to your visit.
