Dental Check-Ups are a vital preventive measure to maintain oral health and here’s why you shouldn’t skip your dental check-ups. These regular appointments allow dentists to catch conditions like cavities and gum disease in their early stages, thereby reducing the risk of more painful and costly treatments down the road.
In addition, dental exams can identify signs of systemic inflammation that have been linked to a number of health conditions. By promoting the importance of healthy diets and good oral hygiene practices, these visits can also have an impact on overall wellness.
The Importance of Dental Check-Ups
A dental exam is a comprehensive oral examination that involves evaluating the health of the teeth and gums, identifying plaque and tartar buildup, as well as checking for signs of oral infections such as gingivitis or cavities. The procedure also includes x-rays to detect abnormalities that are not visible to the naked eye, and cleaning to remove tooth decay and other hard-to-reach areas of the mouth that brushing and flossing may miss.
During these appointments, the dentist will also evaluate the patient’s diet to assess any factors that may affect the teeth and gums such as dietary sugar and acidity, which can cause tooth decay; coffee and tea staining; and smoking and other tobacco use, which can lead to gum disease and oral cancer. If a problem is identified, the dentist will recommend treatment options to prevent progression of the issue.
Another important aspect of a dental exam is the screening for oral cancer, which is typically identified by the appearance of a lump or sore on the lips, tongue or jaw. These checks are performed by the dentist using a mirror to see the back of the throat and throat glands for any red or white patches, or any other unusual growths. In some cases, the dentist may even recommend a biopsy to determine whether the growth is a potential oral cancer.
The benefits of dental checkups are numerous, and can go a long way in preventing serious dental issues that can be expensive to treat or even more devastating to the overall health of an individual. By addressing issues such as tooth decay and gum disease at an early stage, dentists can help patients save money in the long run by avoiding more invasive procedures down the road. Regular dental checkups can also help patients improve their quality of life by preventing bad breath and ensuring that their teeth are strong and healthy, so they can smile with confidence. For these reasons and more, everyone should make a habit of visiting the dentist on a routine basis.
