05 Dec Why Regular Dental Exams Are So Important
Prevention and early action can save you time, money, and relief from a painful condition that might be avoided if you visit your dentist and undergo a dental exam during your regular hygiene appointment.
Every six months (or as recommended by your dentist) you and every member of your family should visit your dental provider for the following treatment:
Cleaning – Plaque build-up occurs daily as bacteria clings to your teeth turning that sticky substance into hardened tartar. Daily brushing and flossing helps to minimize plaque build-up, but chances are that some plaque has formed since your last cleaning. Your dental hygienist will remove plaque from teeth and around gum tissue.
Polishing – Teeth appear brighter after cleaning and polishing.
Dental Exam – Your dental provider will be looking for many things … lesions or other signs that you may have early symptoms of oral cancer. If this is suspected, a biopsy may be ordered. Dental caries can be detected early; decay can be repaired before it escalates; gum disease can be diagnosed and treatment rendered.
Regular visits with your dentist can mean the difference between prevention and the need for treatment. Plaque buildup can lead to cavity formation and the potential for developing gum disease. But in between dental visits, you should remain vigilant about possible problems you could encounter even if you brush and floss every day.
Gingivitis – This is the early form of gum disease. Bleeding, red, or swollen gum tissue; chronic bad breath; gum tissue appearing to be pulling away from teeth … these are all indicators that a dental visit is needed.
Sensitivity – If you feel a zinging sensation to cold, hot, sweet, or sour you may have a cracked tooth; or a cavity may have permeated protective dental enamel. Seek treatment quickly – you could need root canal therapy.
Discomfort – A toothache can be attributed to several things … try flossing to see if pain is due to something caught between teeth. If discomfort continues, do not delay seeing your dentist.
In addition to regular dental visits, you need to brush twice daily with a fluoridated toothpaste and floss to remove what your toothbrush missed. Limit sugary treats and beverages; and do not use tobacco products.
Healthy teeth and gums are important to sustain great overall health. If it’s time to schedule your next dental exam and cleaning, contact Aesthetic Dental Partners today.