Did you know the Adult’s Oral Health & Well-Being Survey found that 42% of Americans don’t visit the dentist at least once a year? Between a demanding work schedule and following the stay-at-home orders, your next visit for a checkup and cleaning with your dentist can seem unnecessary. After all, you practice good dental hygiene, and forgoing this one visit won’t hurt, right?
Actually, your bi-yearly visits are crucial for both your oral and overall health. If you find yourself considering skipping your upcoming visit, here are four benefits you should consider:
Exams Are Instrumental in Prevention and Early Intervention
During the examination portion of your visit, your dentist will thoroughly check your teeth, gums, and tongue. If there are dental issues already present, like a cavity, then your dentist can intervene before it causes more damage. However, these exams also allow your dentist to address any early signs of tooth decay or gum disease. Not only will this save you money in the long run, but it can also play a crucial role in saving your teeth!
Professional Cleanings Remove Plaque and Tartar
Consistent, effective brushing and flossing are the foundation of a proper oral hygiene routine. However, the instruments you have at home are no match for the powerful tools your dentist has at their office. The only way to remove the tartar on your teeth is through professional cleanings. Each visit you skip allows the plaque and tartar to continue to grow, which can lead to destroyed enamel, bad breath, cavities, and even tooth loss. Therefore, you must keep your bi-yearly visits so that your teeth can be thoroughly cleaned.
Routine Visits Can Catch Non-Dental Health Issues
Although routine visits can catch cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease, they can also play a crucial role in finding non-dental health issues. In fact, dentists are often the first to notice symptoms that lead patients to get the early intervention they need. Below are five conditions your dentist can find:
- Osteoporosis
- Oral cancer
- Diabetes
- Eating disorders
- Chronic stress
Get Answers to Problems, Concerns, and Best Practices
In today’s world, it can be tempting to hop on the web to find information about virtually anything. While there is credible information available online, there is a tremendous about of misinformation as well. This can lead patients to feeling anxiety, worry, and stress before they even receive an exam from a medical professional. Instead, use your bi-yearly visits to ask your dentist and dental hygienist about problems, concerns, and best practices when it comes to your oral health. After all, they have extensive training in all things dentistry and are familiar with your dental history. This allows them to offer you advice and solutions backed by experience.
Amid the pressure of everyday life, routine dental cleanings can seem like the least important thing on your list of to-dos. However, your health needs to be a priority. Therefore, make sure to schedule your bi-yearly appointment so that your dentist can ensure your oral and overall health are in pristine condition!
About the Author
After attending the University of the Pacific in 1993 for his D.D.S. degree, Dr. Marc Thomas used his talents to take care of our troops in the U.S. Army Dental Corps. Today, Dr. Thomas is a member of many prestigious organizations, like the American Dental Association, and uses his talents to provide world-class service at Vista Dental Care. If you are looking to schedule a routine checkup and cleaning, don’t hesitate to visit his website or give him a call at 775-626-3535.