Top 3 Reasons See Your Dentist Regularly
Going to the dentist is not on most people’s list of fun things to do. But dental care is an important part of your overall health and wellness. Your oral health is a good indicator of your general health, which is why you need to see a dentist on a regular basis.
How often should you go to the dentist? Why is it necessary? Here are the top 3 reasons to see your dentist regularly.
1. Clean Teeth Are Healthy Teeth.
The purpose of regular dental cleanings is to remove plaque and calculus (hardened plaque) from the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film made of food residue and bacteria that clings to the teeth. When it is not removed, it can harden and become more difficult to remove. The bacteria in plaque can gradually eat away at your tooth enamel, causing cavities (pits or holes in the teeth).
Even if you brush and floss your teeth daily, plaque can still build up on the teeth over time. Dentists and dental hygienists use special tools to remove plaque and calculus from the teeth without harming the enamel.
2. Clean Teeth Promote Healthy Gums.
Another problem that can result from plaque and calculus build up on the teeth is gum disease. Gum disease is a bacterial infection of the gum tissue that is caused by plaque and calculus. It can cause the gums to swell, bleed, and even pull away from the teeth.
Gum disease that goes untreated can damage the jaw bone over time and cause teeth to become loose and even fall out. It is much easier to treat gum disease in the early stages, which is why regular dental cleanings and oral exams are important. Once gum disease progresses it can be managed but not always cured.
3. Oral Health Affects Overall Health.
The most important reason to go to the dentist regularly is that oral health is closely tied to your overall health. Studies have shown a correlation between oral health and other health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis, kidney disease, Alzheimer’s, dementia, and cancer.
Regular oral examinations include a screening for oral cancer. As with most types of cancer, early detection of oral cancer improves the outcome of treatment. Frequent visits to the dentist improve the chances of early detection.
How Often Should You Go To The Dentist?
The recommended schedule for preventive dental visits for the average patient is every 6 months. This allows for twice yearly teeth cleanings to remove built up plaque and oral examinations to look for any potential concerns. This schedule applies to patients of all ages from children to adults.
The exception to this general rule is for patients with specific dental health concerns. For example, gum disease treatment may require more frequent deep cleaning of the teeth, such as quarterly appointments. If there are restorative procedures needed to repair damage to the teeth, more frequent appointments may be necessary until the health of the teeth is restored.
At What Age Should Children Have Their First Dental Visit?
Children should see a dentist by their first birthday or within 6 months of the eruption of their first tooth. As soon as teeth are visible above the gums they are susceptible to decay. Gum disease is also possible at a young age. The biggest benefit of early dental care is that the child gets used to the experience of going to the dentist from a young age and is less likely to be anxious or fearful. It also alerts parents to any potential oral health concerns and helps families make dental care a priority.
Are You Due For a Dental Visit?
If you or your family members have not seen the dentist in the past 6 months, it's time to make an appointment. Advanced Dentistry of Stockbridge is a family dental practice serving patients of all ages. Bring the whole family together for routine dental care so that children can learn from their parents how to care for their teeth and mouth.
Call 770-389-0389 or contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.