Reviewed By Dr. Tyler N Davis, DMD
Reading Time: 3 minutes
Did you know that your mouth is a window to your overall health? Many systemic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease can manifest in the mouth. Regular dental check-ups can help detect these issues early and prevent them from worsening.
A visit to the dentist also allows for early detection of dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer. By catching these problems early on, you can avoid more extensive (and expensive) treatments in the future.
In this blog, we’ll discuss the importance of regular dental checkups and why you should make them a priority.
Table of Contents
The Importance of Regular Dental Checkups
Catch Problems Early
During your checkups, dentists don’t just look for cavities; they’re on the lookout for any signs that could indicate broader health issues. These can range from early signs of oral cancer to subtle indications of diabetes. By catching these issues early, treatment can be both simpler and more effective.
Prevent Plaque and Tartar Buildup
No matter how stellar your at-home oral hygiene routine is, some plaque buildup is inevitable. Regular cleanings prevent plaque from hardening into tartar, a substance so tough it can only be removed by professional dental instruments. Here’s what a visit will typically look like:
- Review your oral hygiene routine: Your dentist can give you tailored advice to improve your at-home care.
- Remove plaque and tartar: Through scaling, your dentist or hygienist will carefully remove buildup.
- Polishing: Once the plaque and tartar are removed, your dentist will polish your teeth to remove any remaining stains or bacteria.
- Examination: Your dentist will carefully examine your teeth and gums for signs of any issues.
- X-rays: X-rays may be taken periodically to check for any hidden dental problems.
How Often Should You Visit the Dentist?
The general recommendation for people with healthy mouths (no bone loss or periodontal disease) is to visit the dentist every six months for a routine checkup and cleaning. However, this can vary depending on your individual oral health needs. Your dentist may recommend more frequent visits if you have existing dental issues like periodontal disease, or are at a higher risk for developing them.
Remember, everyone’s oral health is different. Your dentist will give you a recommendation based on your current oral health and risk factors. So your check-up and cleaning schedule may be different to someone else’s.
How Regular Checkups Contribute to Overall Health
It’s All Connected
The state of your oral health can reflect your overall health. Issues like gum disease can increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. The same bacteria that are found in periodontal disease are also found in heart disease. So keeping your mouth healthy inevitably helps keep your entire body healthy.
Save Money in the Long Run
Preventative care is less expensive than corrective treatment. Regular checkups can help avoid the need for more complex procedures like root canals, crowns (caps), or gum surgery down the line.
A Healthy Mouth Means a Healthy Body
Good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups help reduce your risk of developing serious health issues. It’s a simple step you can take to protect yourself.
A Word on Gum Disease
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, begins with the buildup of plaque on the teeth and gums.
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the surfaces of teeth. If it’s not regularly removed through brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar, which further irritates the gum tissues.
This irritation can lead to the first stage of gum disease, gingivitis, characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums.
Without treatment, gingivitis can advance to periodontitis, a more serious form of gum disease where the gums pull away from the teeth and form pockets that become infected.
The body’s natural response to the infection starts to break down the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place. If left untreated, this can lead to the teeth becoming loose, abscessing, and possibly falling out.
Additionally, the bacteria from gum disease can enter the bloodstream and lead to further health complications, exacerbating conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory illness.
Gum disease is no joke! A simple visit to the dentist at least once or twice a year can catch any early signs of gum disease and prevent it from progressing into a more severe issue.
Power Road Dental Care – Your Partners in Oral Health
So, are regular dental checkups really necessary? YES!
As we’ve discussed, regular dental visits are a critical component of your health care routine. They’re not just about spotting cavities or getting a sparkling smile; they’re about taking a comprehensive approach to your health. Remember:
- Catch problems early
- Prevent plaque and tartar buildup
- Contribute positively to your overall health
By keeping up with your dental checkups, you’re investing in your overall well-being. Don’t put off what can be done today – your body (and wallet) will thank you later. So schedule your next dental visit today and take an important step towards a healthier future.
At Power Road Dental Care, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve and maintain optimal oral health. Our team is committed to providing personalized care to meet your unique needs.
If you are in the East Valley and are searching for ‘dental exam near me’ or ‘dentist in Mesa, AZ’, we can help. To book an appointment, call (480) 664-1438 or complete the online booking form.