Why You Shouldn’t Skip Dental Check-ups
It can be tempting to skip dental check-ups, especially if you aren’t aware of any obvious problems with your teeth. Unfortunately, skipping appointments can lead to bigger and more expensive problems down the road. Below are a few reasons why you should never skip your dental check-ups:
– Regular dental cleanings remove plaque and tartar and prevent buildup on your teeth. Plaque and tartar can cause cavities, gum disease, and a host of other health problems, even those that are not directly related to your mouth. While daily brushing and flossing reduce the buildup of tartar, only your dental hygienist can safely remove all the tartar and prevent its long-term accumulation.
– Relatively minor problems like cavities can become big problems if they aren’t discovered and treated early. These minor issues can turn into major issues that require expensive and painful treatments, like root canal surgery. Your dentist will also look for mouth and throat cancers and may be able to prevent serious health problems.
– Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. When detected during a regular dental check-up in its early stages, gum disease can be treated or reversed. Your dentist can help you learn how to prevent gum disease with daily oral hygiene at home and can offer regular treatments for existing problems. Regular dental check-ups allow your dentist to monitor your gums and spot any trouble before it can escalate.
– Poor dental health can lead to health problems outside the mouth, including heart disease. Your mouth is the gateway to your organs and your heart, kidneys, and liver are all affected by the health of your mouth. If your mouth is harboring an infection or you suffer from gingivitis, bacteria can travel through your body and can contribute to a wide range of health issues.
– Issues like halitosis or unsightly teeth can have an adverse effect on your confidence and social life. Studies show that people who suffer from bad breath or missing teeth often experience depression and may have difficulty finding a job or dating. Regular dental check-ups can help reverse staining, prevent tooth loss, and monitor any developing issues that could damage your smile.
– You are probably aware that dental check-ups can help you maintain your oral health and prevent costly dental procedures, but you may not realize all the ways your dentist can improve and maintain your oral health. Nightguards to prevent clenching and grinding, fluoride treatments to fortify your teeth, instruction recommendations for home care, and other oral health benefits make your dental check-up a vital part of your overall health care plan.
If you can’t visit your dentist twice a year, discuss an alternative schedule with your dentist that might work better for you. You’re better off visiting your dentist once every two years than skipping 3 or more years of dental check-ups. If you can’t afford the preferred bi-annual dental check-up, talk to your dentist about dental insurance or payment plans.
Your dental check-ups are indispensable and can improve your confidence and well-being in surprising ways. They can help you to avoid costly dental procedures and tooth loss and allow you to detect and prevent problems before they become disastrous. Make a regular dental check-up one of your healthcare priorities and let us give you something to smile about!
How We Can Help
If you are looking for a Dentist in Charlottesville, we invite you to discover Hollymead Dental Arts in Charlottesville. Our dedicated dental staff provides comprehensive, high-quality dental care at our dental clinic in Hollymead. Contact Us today to setup an appointment!