5 Reasons Why You Need Six-Month Dental Checkups
Let’s be honest: Delaying a dental checkup is easy to do. Three months becomes six months, and the next thing you know, it’s been a year (or more).
If you need an incentive, think of it this way: Regular checkups can keep you from having to go to the dentist more than twice a year for dental care treatments. There’s truth in the common saying that prevention is better than cure. And if you still need convincing, read on.
Dental Checkups Help Prevent Tooth Decay and Cavities
Cavities and tooth decay occur when bacteria wear down the hard surface of your teeth. This can create a tiny hole that gets bigger unless a dentist removes the bacteria. Cavities can be painful. A serious infection can occur if left untreated.
Cavities are common. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in five adults ages 20 to 64 has a cavity that’s not being treated right now. One of your dentist’s top priorities is to find cavities, including small ones invisible to you. Depending on the cavity’s size, your dentist may recommend fluoride, a filling, or a root canal procedure.
A dentist may need to pull your tooth if you don’t treat a cavity and tooth decay continues.
Dental Checkups Help Prevent Gum Disease
In addition to examining your teeth, a dentist carefully examines your gums during your dental checkup. Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, occurs when your gums become inflamed or infected. Your gums can bleed or swell, and you may have bad breath. Because your gums support your teeth, untreated gum disease can cause you to lose teeth.
Gum disease is also common. According to the CDC, one in four adults 30 years or older has gum disease.
Carefully caring for your teeth can help prevent gum disease. But some people are just unlucky and are more likely to experience gum disease, no matter how regularly they brush and floss. Regular cleanings can help prevent gum disease. Your dentist also can spot gum disease early on and treat it before it leads to more problems.
Oral Checkups are Good for Your Overall Health
You may be surprised by how much your oral health affects your overall health—and vice versa. Studies have shown that issues with your teeth and gums make you at higher risk for:
- Heart issues
- Pneumonia
- Pregnancy problems
- Stroke
On the flip side, some health conditions can negatively impact your oral health, including:
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Diabetes
- Cancer
- HIV/AIDS
- Weak and brittle bones
Visiting your dentist regularly doesn’t just affect your smile. It can have a positive and profound effect on your entire well-being.
Dental Checkups Screen for Cancer
At every checkup, your dentist will screen for oral cancer by examining everything inside your mouth and the back of your throat, as well as your lips, neck, and face. The earlier your dentist detects oral cancer, the easier it is to treat.
Dental Checkups Promote Good Oral Health
Dentists do a great job at playing detective, finding and treating issues in your mouth. Dentists also do a great job of offering personalized advice on what you can do between your six-month dental checkups to prevent problems in the future. Your dentist may talk to you about the following:
- Toothbrush bristle softness
- Areas to brush more
- Water flosser benefits
- Tongue brush benefits
- Fluoride treatments
- Dental sealants
- Sleep apnea treatments
- Antibacterial mouthwash
- Teeth straightening
- Teeth whitening
Schedule Your Dental Checkup Today
Whether it’s been six months or six years since your last dental checkup, the dentists and hygienists at First Impressions Dentistry want to see you. Request a dental appointment at our Oklahoma City or Yukon dental office today.