Do You Really Have to Visit the Dentist?
Do you really have to visit the dentist? As a matter of fact, yes, you do. But if you’re asking this question, you probably knew that that was the answer. You’re more likely wondering why. Why is going to the dentist important if I’m feeling fine? Is going every six months really a thing?
There are several reasons why regular dental visits are important. Read on to discover all the benefits of going to the dentist!
Regular Dental Checkup
No matter how consistent you are at brushing or how thorough your flossing game, nothing compares to a regular dental checkup. That’s because the six-month appointment isn’t just a professional dental cleaning by your hygienist who gets in hard-to-reach corners and crevices, but it’s also a dental exam with x-rays and advanced technology that you don’t have at home. Leave the hard work of removing plaque and tartar to the experts and allow them to meticulously examine areas that only their specialized equipment can get to.
Gum Disease Prevention
When we think of dental visits, we think of teeth. What most of us don’t realize is the importance of maintaining gum heath in order to keep our teeth in good shape. How healthy are your gums? Do you know the signs of gum disease, that pesky little nuisance that creeps in before we even notice it’s there? Untreated gum disease can spiral out of control, leading to a variety of complicated issues, including teeth loss and bone loss. Attending regular appointments ensures you keep periodontal (gum) problems at bay.
Shiny, White Smile
Not only do regular cleanings keep your smile healthy, but they whiten your teeth more than at-home brushings can. Regular in-depth cleanings help to prevent long-term stains, and the hygienist polishes your teeth until they shine. If you’d like to learn more about professional teeth whitening while at your regular cleaning, we can set you up with our in-office teeth whitening services or send you home with our professional at-home teeth whitening kits. Ask your dentist or hygienist for details.
Protection Against Cavities
Perhaps the number one reason regular dental cleanings are a must is because they are the best way to fight tooth decay. The biggest reason for tooth decay is plaque and tartar buildup. And the only way to completely rid your teeth of sticky, cavity-causing plaque is by having a professional remove it with premium instruments and techniques. Dentists determine if the deposits are visible above the gumline or only in an x-ray, and then they scrape the tartar with small tools that often have curved surfaces. Regular dental appointments prevent the plaque and tartar buildup which lead to cavities.
Preventative Care
If you find regular checkups to be costly, know that the cost of restorative care is even more. When you neglect your teeth and skip your six-month appointments, possible complications, including tooth loss, cavities, root canals, and gum disease, are likely to result and cost much more than a cleaning. Preventative care, on the other hand, keeps your smile healthy and helps you to avoid those more costly procedures down the road.
Book an appointment before the end of the year!
And as we approach the end of the year, there’s no time like the present to use your dental benefits before they run out. Use what benefits you have left by booking a last-minute appointment today!