Dental Exam
We all know that regular brushing and routine dental exams are important for maintaining oral health. What many people might not realize, however, is just how important having regular dental exams is. It’s not just about getting your teeth professionally cleaned, although that’s part of it. Let’s explore some of the other benefits of having a routine dental exam.
Cavity Detection and Prevention
A cavity forms when plaque, a sticky layer of bacteria, begins eating away at the outer layer of your teeth called the enamel. Regular cleanings from your dentist prevent plaque from building up to the point where you might start to develop cavities. However, sometimes cavities do form, and your routine dental exam is the time for your dentist to detect any tooth decay early on and take care of it before it turns into a more serious problem.
Tartar Removal
Another concern about plaque is that it can harden and turn into tartar, which cannot be removed by brushing and flossing. When tartar is allowed to build up on the teeth and along the gumline, serious oral health conditions can develop. It’s important to see your dentist regularly to have tartar professionally and safely removed.
Oral Cancer Screening
A routine checkup is a perfect opportunity for your dentist or hygienist to perform an oral cancer screening. During the screening, he or she will feel the area under your jaw, the sides of your neck, and the insides of your lips and cheeks, as well as examine the sides of your tongue, the roof, and floor of your mouth, and the back of your throat. It only takes a minute, but it’s so important.
Gum Disease Prevention
If left untreated, gum disease can be a major cause of tooth loss in adults. There are two kinds of gum disease: gingivitis and periodontal disease. Both of these are caused by plaque that has built up below the gumline. Fortunately, having a routine dental exam reduces plaque buildup that daily brushing and flossing might miss, thus greatly reducing the chances of developing swelling, soreness, or infection of the tissues supporting the teeth.
Fresher Breath with a Dental Exam
Fifty percent of adults have had bad breath, or halitosis, at some point in their lives. If you’re concerned about what’s causing your bad breath, make an appointment to see your dentist. Good oral hygiene habits and regular checkups are the best way to prevent halitosis or chronic bad breath. If you happen to have an underlying dental problem such as tartar buildup then you may also struggle with bad breath. Fortunately, your dentist can safely remove tartar and recommend other oral hygiene habits that can help you banish bad breath and restore your confidence,
When you think about it, your routine dental exam is the first line of defense not only against cavities and gum disease but a range of other oral health issues. It’s simply too important to keep putting it off. Be sure to visit your dentist for a routine dental exam every six months.
Are you due for a dental exam? Your Dental Health Partners has multiple locations throughout Massachusetts and Connecticut. Contact any one of our locations and speak with a team member. Moreover, we accept new patients and most insurances. Call or book online today!
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