There’s a reason why dentists recommend getting a check-up every 6 months – in fact, we believe there are at least 10 reasons! In this article, we’ll take a look at the top 10 reasons we believe it pays in the long run to schedule routine cleanings and dental exams twice a year. Take a look and let us know if we’re missing any.
10 Reasons To See Your Dentist Routinely
1. Catch minor issues before they become major issues.
A routine dental visit typically consists of two main components: the cleaning and the exam (or check-up). During the exam portion of your visit, your dentist will closely examine your teeth for any indications of tooth decay, such as cavities, and evaluate your overall oral health, including the health of your gums. By getting routine dental exams, you can ensure that simple problems do not turn into more complex problems, helping you avoid the physical and financial pain of lingering conditions.
2. Prevent tooth decay with professional cleanings.
Even the most meticulous brushers and flossers need to have their teeth cleaned professionally by a dentist twice a year. That’s because plaque builds up in hard-to-reach places over time, and plaque that is not removed can harden and become tartar. You cannot usually remove tartar by brushing and flossing alone, so routine visits allow for any plaque and tartar that has built up since your last appointment to be removed with special tools. This practice helps prevent tooth decay, which ultimately leads to cavities, and more serious issues like Gingivitis, a form of gum disease.
3. Screen for oral cancer, gum disease and other conditions.
One of the most important aspects of a routine dental check-up is the oral cancer exam. This exam typically involves having the dentist or hygienist feel your jaw, your neck and the insides of your lips and cheeks, as well as the sides of your tongue and the roof and floor of your mouth. Your hygienist or dentist will also be looking for signs of gum disease and can perform more in-depth gum tests if needed.
4. Brighten your smile and boost your self-confidence.
Getting your teeth cleaned regularly is a great way keep your smile beautiful and give your self-confidence a boost. If you find yourself embarrassed about your smile in any way, whether it’s a result of discolored, chipped, cracked or missing teeth, we can help you explore a wide range of cosmetic dentistry options, all designed to help you look and feel your best.
5. Protect your oral health, protect your overall health.
Did you know that your oral health can impact other areas of your body? For example, there is a growing body of research linking oral health with cardiovascular health. A study led by the University of California, Berkeley determined that women who get dental care have a lower risk of heart disease, fewer strokes and other adverse cardiovascular outcomes. Similarly, the symptoms of some systematic diseases, such as diabetes, lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, might first appear in the mouth. Should your dentist spot anything worrisome on one of your routine visits, he or she can bring it to your attention and recommend that you see your primary care physician.
6. Stay in tune with your dental health.
Generally speaking, people who visit their dentist every six months are more “in tune” with their overall oral health than those who do not. For example, if you visit your dentist regularly, you’re more likely to notice subtle symptoms like teeth or gum sensitivity, as well as potential problem areas to bring to your dentist’s attention at your next appointment. By staying on top of your dental health, you’re more than likely to recognize problems quickly – and resolve them before they become ongoing problems.
7. Keep an eye on past dental work.
Some dental work can break down over time, so it’s important to keep an eye on any previous work that was completed, especially if it was done by someone other than your current dentist. With routine visits, your dentist is able to differentiate between normal wear and tear and more serious problems and, thus, can recommend ways to fortify or, in some cases, replace the work that was done previously. Being proactive typically saves you money and affords you more treatment options.
8. Empower yourself with practical knowledge.
Knowledge is power, as they say, and the same is true in dentistry. At Greenville Family Dentistry, we strive to communicate good dental habits and create an open, honest environment, where patients can ask questions without fear of judgment or embarrassment. By understanding why certain dental habits are encouraged – and others are discouraged – you can arm yourself with practical knowledge and put it into practice to take control of your own dental health and well-being.
9. Set a good example for your children.
As we all know, kids have an uncanny ability to mimic our behavior and pick up on our habits, both good and bad alike. When you visit the dentist regularly, you are conveying to your children the importance of good oral health and setting them up for a life of good dental habits and practices. You’re also letting them know at an early age that there’s no reason to be anxious or fearful of visiting the dentist.
10. Save money in the long run.
Last but definitely not least, one of the main reasons to visit the dentist regularly is to save money, plain and simple. By visiting the dentist twice a year, you’re more likely to uncover – and address – potential problems before they require more costly and invasive treatments. In other words, preventative maintenance for your mouth is not much different than preventative maintenance for your car. The cost to change the oil regularly will be less than the cost to replace a failed engine due to neglect.
Looking for a Family Dentist in Greer, SC?
As you can see, we’re big believers in routine teeth cleanings and dental examinations for all of the reasons listed above. If you’re not already visiting your dentist twice a year or if you’re looking for a family dentist in Greer, SC to help you and your family get back on track, we invite you to schedule an appointment with us today. Should you have any questions for us, feel free to contact us first. We look forward to hearing from you!
