Let’s face it--visiting the dentist is something that few people look forward to. The thought of this anxiety-invoking appointment rests heavily on the minds of those of us who have had unsavory experiences with our dental care providers.
What we fail to realize, however, is that by regularly visiting your dentist, you can reduce the possibility of having to receive some of the more uncomfortable and more expensive procedures that your dentist can provide. While you may be tempted to keep putting your oral hygiene off due to anxiety, hectic schedules, or any other reason, consider the risks of not going. Here are six reasons that you need to keep making those bi-annual appointments.
Regular appointments can help detect and screen for oral cancers.
Oral cancer is often diagnosed well into the advanced stages of the disease, unfortunately. By attending regular checkups, your highly trained dental professionals can easily detect and spot signs of early development, making treatment much easier to provide. Some dentists offer a VELscope cancer exam, where a special light is shined into the mouth, identifying areas of dead tissue that tumor growth has overtaken. This type of exam is painless, and it takes very little time; making the decision to be proactive with your oral health is key to making sure you remain healthy and disease free.
Regular appointments keep plaque, tartar, and cavities at bay.
Even with the most diligent brushing and flossing, there are areas of the mouth that escape our attention simply based on their location. Excess plaque build-up develops into tartar, a hard and sticky substance that can irritate and inflame gum tissue and other soft tissues in the mouth. Excess tartar buildup causes not only cavities to form, but gingivitis as well. Visiting your dentist on a regular basis is one way to ensure that your teeth remain clean, vibrant, and free from cavities.
Regular appointments reduce your risk of gum disease.
Gingivitis in its early form is mere irritation of the gums and soft tissues in the mouth. In advanced stages of gingivitis, however, gum tissue is affected to the point that it can result in soft tissue and tooth loss! Gum disease is extremely difficult to reverse once it has reached the advanced stages of the disease, and often more invasive procedures are necessary to reconstruct the mouth and bring it back to health. Making regular trips to your dentist will determine if you are at risk for developing gum disease, and it will allow you and your oral health care professionals to proactively come up with a plan for prevention and treatment.
Regular appointments will help to keep your bad habits in check.
You may have acquired bad habits that are affecting your oral health. Habits such as nail biting, ice chewing, smoking, and drinking acidic beverages are all detrimental to your oral health. Dentists can not only check for damage and decay, but they can also provide you with options for developing better habits and tips on nutritional and lifestyle health to keep your teeth looking and feeling their best. Take advantage of that knowledge when you visit twice a year and follow their advice; your teeth will thank you.
Regular appointments can provide you with proactive diagnosis of problems
A regular part of annual dentist visits is taking x-rays. X-rays can provide a picture of what is going on underneath the surface of your teeth, and gums; it will provide a total picture of your oral health that is visible to your dentist and give you both an idea of what services you will need for your treatment. X-rays can also measure the health and density of bone tissue; with these statistics available to your dentist, he can determine if you are at risk for development of other oral diseases as well, and he will be better able to provide preventative and proactive treatment for any conditions found.
Regular appointments can provide you with more information about neck, head, and lymph node health.
In addition to checking your entire oral cavity, your dentist can also check your head, neck, and even lymph nodes to see if potential problems exist. Diagnosing and treating issues early is key to maintaining and improving health over time. Don’t shy away from those visits; an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!
Dr. Krueger: Your Partner On The Road To Oral Health
Dr. Gordon E. Krueger DDS, MS, PA has a solid reputation for excellence in dentistry for more than 25 years. His staff are committed to creating a proactive experience for you; this includes making sure you have regularly scheduled appointments with us. Contact us today to find out how to take advantage of how we can improve your overall health and well-being. Visit https://www.gordonekruegerdds.com/ to book your next appointment. A vibrant and healthy smile is in your future!
