You may think that you don’t need to go to the dentist because you don’t have any oral cavities or other dental issues. However, there are cases where dental problems don’t cause pain until they become severe enough to affect your daily life. So you must visit your dentist regularly to avoid severe problems in the future.
How Often Should You Visit the Dentist?
The American Dental Association recommends that adults and children have a dentist appointment at least twice yearly for a comprehensive oral examination and cleaning.
However, some people may need to see their dentist more frequently. These are people who are prone to tooth decay, periodontal disease, or other oral health conditions. These high-risk groups of people include:
#1. Pregnant Women
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to an increase in plaque accumulation on teeth. If left untreated, this plaque can turn into tartar, leading to gingivitis. That is why pregnant women are recommended to visit the dentist more often to prevent gum infections.
#2. Diabetics
Diabetes can lead to a high level of sugar in your saliva. Since bacteria in your mouth feed off sugars, they grow faster than usual. This results in tooth decay and cavities.
#3. Smokers
Smoking increases your risk of developing gum disease. Smoking also affects how quickly your gums heal after surgery.
#4. Cancer Patients
Radiation therapy and chemotherapy can damage your salivary glands. This reduces the amount of saliva produced. If you have low saliva levels, you are at higher risk for tooth decay and gum disease.
Why Going to the Dentist is Important
Preventative dental care is essential for maintaining your overall dental health. Not only does it help you maintain good dental hygiene, but it also helps you protect against potential dental diseases.
Here are just a few reasons why going to the dentist is essential:
- Prevents tooth decay and cavities: Regular dental cleaning removes food particles between your teeth and prevents them from decaying. Dental decay causes bad breath, toothaches, and, eventually, loss of teeth.
- It protects your gums: Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss. Regular visits to the dentist will allow them to check your gums for signs of infection. They can then treat the problem before it becomes too advanced.
- Detects oral cancer early: Early-stage oral cancer is usually not painful. That is why some people do not seek treatment until it has progressed to a point where cancer cannot be treated effectively. You can detect early signs of oral cancer by visiting your dentist regularly. If caught early, oral cancer can be highly treatable.
- Detects other oral health problems: Regular dental exams allow dentists and dental hygienists to identify other oral health problems such as gum disease, tooth abscesses, and impacted wisdom teeth. They can then provide appropriate treatments to improve your oral health.
What To Expect During Your Dental Check-Up
During your dental appointment, your dentist or dental hygienist will perform several procedures, including:
- Dental Cleaning: A thorough cleaning of your teeth and gums is performed using special tools. This procedure removes debris and plaque build-up from your teeth and gums that could cause serious problems if left untreated.
- Polishing: Your teeth are polished with the use of a polisher to smooth out the rough surfaces of the teeth.
- X-Rays: An x-ray is used to view areas within your mouth that are difficult to reach with a standard dental tool. X-rays help detect abnormalities in your teeth, jawbone, and soft tissues.
- Oral Cancer Screening: If you have been diagnosed with or suspect you may have oral cancer, your dentist will perform an oral cancer screening. This test aims to determine whether there are any suspicious lesions on your tongue, lips, cheeks, the floor of your mouth, or inside your cheek. If any abnormal growths are found during the screening process, your dentist will refer you to a specialist who specializes in treating oral cancers.
- Assessment of Gum Health: Gum disease is often referred to as “the silent killer” because it can go undetected by most people. However, regular dental check-ups can help prevent gum disease from progressing to more severe stages. During your dental visit, your dentist will examine your gums for signs of inflammation, bleeding, swelling, or infection. They will also take impressions of your gums to evaluate their condition over time.
Your dentist may also discuss any lifestyle changes or treatments that can help improve your oral health. They may recommend brushing and flossing more often, using a special toothpaste or mouthwash, or changing your diet to include more nutritious foods. Additionally, they may suggest quitting smoking or using tobacco products to reduce the risk of gum disease and other oral health issues.
Commonly Asked Questions
How often should I visit the dentist?
It is generally recommended that you visit the dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning. However, depending on your individual oral health needs, you may need to go more or less often. If you have healthy teeth and gums, then going once every six months should be sufficient. On the other hand, if you have gum disease or cavities, then your dentist may recommend more frequent visits.
Why should I visit the dentist regularly?
Regular dental care helps keep your teeth healthy and strong. It also reduces the risk of developing periodontal (gum) disease and other oral health issues. Visiting the dentist regularly allows your dentist to identify any potential problems early on, so they can be treated before they become more serious. Additionally, regular checkups allow your dentist to provide preventive care, such as fluoride treatments and dental sealants, which can help protect your teeth from decay.
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