Many people only visit their dentist when they have an immediate issue, like a toothache, and need help. But did you know that the American Dental Association recommends visiting your provider every six months for a routine checkup and cleaning?
This allows them to monitor your overall oral health and to catch and treat any problem areas before they progress. If you’re thinking about skipping your next routine visit, continue reading to learn about 3 reasons to reconsider!
Concern #1: Cavities
It’s easy to think that your mouth must be healthy if you don’t see obvious issues, but it’s possible to have tooth decay and not know. Even if you brush and floss twice daily, there’s still a chance bacteria can penetrate your enamel in places that are difficult to see on your own, like between two teeth or behind your molars.
Your dentist has the experience and equipment to quickly identify areas of damaged enamel so they can provide an appropriate solution, like tooth-colored fillings or a dental crown, depending on the severity of the harm done.
Concern #2: Gum Disease
When it comes to your oral health, your connective tissues are equally as important as your teeth. For example, periodontitis (advanced gum disease) is the leading cause of permanent tooth loss in adults.
You might think you would surely notice infected tissues before they have the chance to recede, but unfortunately, gum disease is incredibly difficult to catch in its early stages because it doesn’t always exhibit visible symptoms. That means it’s often able to progress into more advanced stages that put your dental condition at risk. Thankfully, your dentist can catch gingivitis and halt it in its tracks before it worsens.
Concern #3: Oral Cancer
Did you know that most dentists also screen the soft tissues of your mouth for signs of oral cancer during routine visits? This dangerous condition is the eighth most common cancer in the U.S., and once diagnosed, only about half of patients survive past five years. Catching it early is the best way to improve your prognosis, so it’s worth taking the time to visit your provider so they can check for early indicators to help avoid this potentially fatal condition.
You might think that visiting your dentist every six months is unnecessary if you’re convinced your mouth is healthy. However, there’s a chance you might have developed a serious concern that deserves treatment sooner rather than later. Attending routine appointments help prevent problems and safeguard your smile!
About the Practice
Patients at Skyline Dental benefit from a team of dentists dedicated to helping families in Springfield build and maintain happy, healthy teeth and gums. Our compassionate providers collaborate to provide a comprehensive menu of services to meet all your needs under one roof, including preventive checkups and cleanings. They take the time to get to know your unique concerns and goals, then utilize state-of-the-art technology to provide accurate, long-lasting results. You can request an appointment on the website or call (973) 963-8181.