No one enjoys going to the dentist.
In fact, many people dread the idea so much that they neglect their own dental hygiene by avoiding regular visits to the dentist.
This is never a good idea. Dental care is a crucial part of whole body wellness, and poor dental hygiene can affect your health in many surprising ways, from heart health to cancer.
It is important to consider the long-term effects of skipping dental appointments, as it will likely cost you more in the long run, both in time and money.
Cavities and Plaque
One of the more well-known reasons to visit a dentist regularly is to keep cavities in check. Even the most avid brushers and flossers will have a tough time fully removing plaque from hard to reach areas, such as between your teeth or under your gum line.
That plaque will then develop into tartar, which is nearly impossible to remove without professional help from a dentist. Regular dental appointments help to clear tartar from the teeth, preventing decay and cavities, which are small holes that form on a tooth’s surface.
Unfortunately, most cavities are hard to detect until they become fully formed holes. So even if you think your teeth are healthy, there may be a future cavity in the works that only a dentist will know how to identify and treat.
One often overlooked part of dental hygiene is the gum line. It is important to care for your teeth, but your gums are equally important. When plaque is untreated, it can lead to an infection in your gum line that causes your gums to recede, leaving the teeth exposed beyond the enamel line.
Not only will regular dental cleanings keep your gums healthy, but your dentist can also give you recommendations to help improve your oral hygiene routine.
One important reason to visit a dentist is to take advantage of the modern medical technology available to them. X-rays are used to locate problems deep within the teeth that would otherwise go unnoticed. X-rays can reveal signs of decay or other problems that haven’t manifest yet, allowing your dentist to get a head start on treatment or make notes of follow-up needed.
Do not let fear or procrastination affect your health. Bi-annual dental check-ups are highly recommended. Make an appointment to check up on your oral health today if you have any questions or concerns. You will be glad you did.