Most of us know that brushing twice a day and flossing daily are important for keeping our teeth in good shape. But attending dental appointments every six months (or more, if recommended by the dentist) is equally important. Procrastination, anxiety, and busy schedules keep some people away from the dentist until there’s a problem they can’t ignore. Although dental appointments may not be your favorite calendar event, your biannual visit to the dentist can save you money, time, and the discomfort of dealing with complex dental issues down the road. Read on for more information about why preventive dentistry is so important.
The importance of preventive dentistry
Preventive dentistry refers to the steps you and your dentist take to protect your teeth from common dental problems. Tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath can result from insufficient dental care, but poor oral hygiene has also been associated with stroke, diabetes, and heart disease. Your mouth is the gateway to your whole body. When the wrong bacteria build up on your teeth and gums, it’s only a matter of time before they find their way into your digestive tract, putting you at risk for serious health complications. Preventive dentistry is about more than just keeping your mouth clean; it’s about keeping your body healthy. In addition to the brushing and flossing you do at home, here’s the role your dentist plays during your routine visits.
Early detection
Most people don’t notice signs of tooth decay and gum disease until it’s too late. Bleeding gums, tooth pain, and other signs come only when a problem has already developed. But during your checkups, your dentist looks for weakened enamel, tartar buildup, swollen or discolored gums, and other signs of developing cavities or gum disease. Your dentist also keeps an eye out for signs of oral cancer on the gums, cheek, and tongue. When dental problems are detected early enough, a simple treatment is usually enough to restore the patient’s oral health.
Professional dental cleaning
No matter how thoroughly and consistently you brush your teeth, there will be spots you can’t quite get clean enough on your own. Plaque and tartar like to build up in hidden places that you can’t see or reach, but your dentist has the visual advantage as well as the tools needed to clear out the harmful bacteria before they do damage to your teeth and gums. Dental cleaning San Diego
Enamel strengthening
Even if your toothpaste contains fluoride, you may still need the additional protection of the higher strength fluoride treatments provided by your dentist. Whether you have particularly cavity prone teeth, a reduced saliva flow from prescription medications, gum recession, or sensitive teeth, fluoride treatments can help remineralize your tooth enamel and give you additional protection from tooth decay.
Your daily oral hygiene practice combined with the routine services your dentist provides provide the best defense against dental problems and keep you in great health. The better care you take of your teeth now, the longer they’ll be able to take care of you.
Let us be your partner in oral health | University Dental San Diego
At University Dental, we’re committed to providing every patient with top notch dental care and excellent service in a nurturing environment. Whether you’re interested in our routine dental services or you have a dental problem you need solved, we’re here for you. Give us a call at (619) 582-4224 today.
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