How often do you see your dentist? When was the last time you actually made an effort to set an appointment with your dentist? If it was six months ago then you’re on the right track but if you can’t remember the last time you sat in a dental chair, now that’s something to worry about. You see, dental appointments are vital not just for your dental health but also for your overall health. Unfortunately, not a lot of people are aware of the importance of having yearly dental visits. Just so you know, if you deliberately avoid your dentist because you’re scared of “painful” treatments or you just want to avoid the fees, know that there will be risks involved.
The following are important reasons why it is crucial that you see your dentist at least twice a year.
Early Detection of Oral Cancer
Do you know that thousands of people are diagnosed with oral cancer each year? And just as many dice because of the disease. One of the reasons why people die is because the cancer wasn’t caught early. This is why it is necessary that you regularly see your dentist because dental health professionals can detect signs and symptoms of oral cancer. Early diagnosis will prevent the disease from advancing. You see, when cancer cells start to spread more aggressive treatments will be done and, in some cases, the treatments are not strong enough to stop the cancer cells from metastasizing.
To Keep Your Teeth Plaque and Tartar Free
Even if you brush your teeth twice a day and floss after every meal you will still be susceptible to plaque and tartar buildup. Sure, brushing and flossing can remove food debris from your teeth but there are certain areas in your mouth that your toothbrush can’t reach and these are the areas that are prone to plaque and tartar buildup. The only person who can effectively rid your mouth of any traces of plaque and tartar is your dental health professional. Your dentist has the necessary instruments to check all angles and crevices of your teeth and the tools needed to scrape off stubborn plaque and tartar.
To Be Free of Gum Disease
When plaque is not removed immediately it will solidify and turn into hard-to-remove tartar. These usually collect along your gumline. Eventually, tartar buildup will irritate your gums and cause an infection called gingivitis. Patients with gingivitis often complain of bleeding, painful and sore gums. When your gums become so infected it could result to tooth loss. The good news is that gum disease can be treated as long as it is caught during its early stage. Brushing, flossing and professional teeth cleaning can reverse gingivitis but if the infection has become so advanced, more complex treatments may be necessary to preserve your oral health.
Teach You the Proper Way to Brush and Floss Your Teeth
Do you know that thousands of patients visit their dentist because of tooth decay and cavities? And what’s surprising is that these people actually brush and floss their teeth daily. What could be the reason why they developed tooth decay? The answer is simple; they were brushing and flossing their teeth wrong. If you don’t follow the right techniques, your efforts will all be for nothing. If you see your dentist regularly, he or she can demonstrate to you how it’s done and how often you should do it. When you brush and floss your teeth right you are reducing your risk of developing cavities and tooth decay.
When you know why you need to see your dentist, you’ll be able to appreciate your dental visits. Before you say no, remember what’ at stake.
Gerald Regni
Dr Gerald Regni, DMD, has been practicing dentistry for over 30 years. He does general and cosmetic dentistry, but has a special interest and focus in biological and holistic dentistry. He can be contacted at: Dr. Gerald Regni, DMD 937 Christian St Philadelphia, PA 19147 (215) 351-9399
