It’s tempting to want to skip your routine dental checkup if you don’t currently have any oral issues. Many people assume that if they don’t see any problems then their mouth must be in good health. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. You should see your dentist every 6 months for preventative care and a professional cleaning even if you don’t think that you need it. If you’re not convinced, keep reading to learn 3 reasons why it’s so important to keep these visits on the calendar!
Reason #1: Gum Disease is Hard to Detect
Did you know that it’s estimated that nearly half of adults aged 30 or older have some form of gum disease? It’s also listed as the leading cause of tooth loss and can contribute to other conditions like diabetes and heart issues, so you don’t want it to go untreated. The early signs are notoriously difficult to spot because there may not be visible indicators, like receding gums, until it has progressed. It’s often referred to as a “silent” disease because of this.
However, your dentist knows what to look for to address it before it gets worse. That means seeing them regularly allows them to keep your gums happy.
Reason #2: Hidden Cavities Happen
It’s natural to think that if you had a cavity you would most certainly know it, but it’s possible to have one (or more) and be unaware. They can develop in spaces that are hard for you to see, like between your teeth or behind your molars. Thankfully, your dentist knows this and can check for tooth decay in places you might have missed. Many providers use intraoral cameras to view hard-to-reach areas more easily, and they have the expertise to see eroding enamel before bacteria can penetrate all the way into your tooth.
Reason #3: Oral Cancer is Preventable
Oral cancer is the 6th most common cancer worldwide, making it a huge concern for people of all ages, genders, and nationalities. In 2020, it was reported that more than 377,000 new cases were diagnosed, and it caused over 177,000 deaths globally.
Although these statistics are startling, it’s important to remember that oral cancer is often curable when caught early enough. It’s also highly preventable if you practice proper oral hygiene habits at home and visit your dentist consistently. You may not have been aware, but your dentist includes an oral cancer screening as a standard part of your checkups to help you avoid this dangerous condition.
While it might be more convenient for your schedule to skip your next routine visit with your dentist, you could be putting your smile at risk! Regular dental appointments are a simple and effective way to keep your grin healthy for life.
About the Author
At St. Albans Dental, people of all ages benefit from multiple experts who offer a full range of oral care services under one roof. They take the time to get to know your unique needs so that they can provide individualized solutions to improve your dental well-being. With advanced technology onsite, they’re able to enhance patient comfort while increasing treatment accuracy. Plus, you’re sure to feel at ease with their friendly staff who go above and beyond to help you feel welcomed and comfortable. If it’s been a while since your last checkup, you’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (802) 524-4844.