Going to the dentist isn’t most people’s idea of fun. Because of this, it can be all too easy to put off seeing your dentist until you have a serious toothache. However, avoiding routine checkups and cleanings can end up spelling disaster for your smile. Here are seven reasons why you should keep up with two dental checkups and cleanings every year.
1. Prevent Oral Cancer
During your checkup, your dentist looks for more than just cavities. They’ll also screen your mouth for oral cancer. One American dies of oral cancer every hour of every day, according to the Oral Cancer Foundation, which is why early detection is key. The sooner your dentist spots potential signs of oral cancer, the easier and more successful your treatment is likely to be.
2. Avoid Gum Disease
The leading cause of tooth loss in the United States is gum disease, a bacterial infection in the gum tissues and bone that support your teeth. Gum disease often doesn’t present symptoms like discomfort until it has reached the advanced stage. Regular checkups give your dentist the opportunity to diagnose gum disease before it permanently damages your smile.
3. Keep More Than Just Your Smile Healthy
Poor dental health may increase your risk of heart attack and stroke. Gum disease in particular has also been linked to a higher risk of diabetes, osteoporosis, dementia, and more. Fortunately, dental checkups can ward off these problems.
4. Preserve Your Natural Smile
As mentioned earlier, gum disease is the most common reason for adult tooth loss. Visiting your dentist just twice a year can go a long way toward helping you maintain your natural pearly whites for life.
5. Make Sure You’re Doing It Right
Attending two dental checkups a year is only half the battle in maintaining a healthy smile. You’ll also need to keep up with a good at-home oral hygiene routine. Based on your unique dental needs, your dentist can recommend specific products and techniques to keep your smile clean between appointments.
6. Save Money
Dental checkups and cleanings cost significantly less than treatments for the problems they can avoid. Plus, most dental insurance plans fully cover the cost of preventive care. Investing in two of these visits a year can prevent the need for more invasive, expensive procedures that are less likely to be covered by insurance.
7. Get a Smile That Dazzles
In addition to clearing away plaque that has built up in your mouth, professional teeth cleanings also remove surface stains from your enamel. You can look forward to leaving your dentist’s office with a smile that not only feels better, but shines more brightly!
Has it been more than six months since your last dental checkup? If so, pick up the phone and call your dentist to schedule your next one. Your future smile will thank you!
About the Author
Dr. Nelson Y. Howard obtained his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 1986 from the UCLA School of Dentistry. In the 34 years since then, he has become one of the fewer than 500 dentists worldwide to become an Accredited Member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. He also advocates for a preventive approach to dental care, always emphasizing the importance of routine checkups. To schedule yours, visit his website or call his Rancho Bernardo office at (858)-451-0550.