It’s been a few years …

It’s not uncommon to hear that someone hasn’t visited their family dentist in a few years. Frequently, people don’t see the point in it. If their teeth don’t hurt, why bother going? But professional cleanings and evaluations are more than just thorough toothbrushing. They are major checkpoints that allow your dental team to catch minor issues before they turn into big (and expensive) problems. Here are 8 important benefits you miss out on if you skip dental checkups:

1. Oral Cancer Screenings

During a typical visit, your dentist will look for any signs of oral cancer. This isn’t invasive, so don’t worry! The dentist is simply looking for any strange white or red spots inside the mouth and feeling for any lumps around your face, neck, and jaw.

2. Sleep Apnea Recognition

People often miss the signs and symptoms of sleep apnea, especially in women and children. Did you know that your dentist will keep an eye out for some of the common sleep apnea signs? These include bruxism (grinding and clenching), a high and narrow palate, and increased tooth decay from mouth breathing.

Be aware that only a sleep doctor can actually diagnose you with sleep apnea, but the dentist can point out early signs that you need to see a sleep specialist. 

3. Brushing Techniques

Do you ever find yourself wondering if you are getting every tooth completely clean? We all have our weak areas when it comes to brushing or flossing. Maybe you don’t get the back of those molars as well as you should, or maybe you have a crooked tooth that doesn’t get the attention it deserves. At a regular dental cleaning, your dentist can identify areas that need a little more help.

4. Referrals

If you are in need of some further work, your dentist will be able to send out those referrals for you. Need to look into getting some braces? Your dentist will be able to help you out!

5. Cavity Detection

Did you know that the CDC reports that over half of children between the ages of 6 and 8 have had at least one cavity in their baby teeth? Thankfully, cavities are preventable, and keeping up with those regular visits can go a long way in helping catch any problems before they get too bad. 

If your little one ends up with a toothache, here are a few ways to help keep your child comfortable until you can visit their dentist.

6. Gum Disease Detection and Prevention

Gum disease is one of the most common oral health problems in adults. In fact, it affects nearly 75% of adults. Sounds like it would be a good thing to keep an eye out for, right? At each preventive oral evaluation and cleaning, your dental hygienist will check for any early signs of gum disease.

7. Dental Anxiety Reduction

Anxiety can be a tricky thing. But sometimes, jumping back into things can make a world of difference. Depending on the situation, continuing to put off what you are nervous about can make fears fester. In the case of dental anxiety, seeing a dentist you know and trust goes a long way in management.

When it comes to children, regular visits help keep dental anxiety from plaguing their adult lives. It does this in multiple ways. First, it helps prevent serious issues. Second, just having that secure foundation helps them feel more confident in their oral health. 

8. Avoiding the Dangers of Do-It-Yourself Dental Care

These words strike fear into the heart of every dentist out there. Though you can buy certain dental instruments online, don’t try to clean your own teeth. It is incredibly easy to damage your enamel, cut your gums, and open yourself up to infection. Dental hygienists are specifically trained to thoroughly clean your teeth to remove hardened plaque, or calculus, while preserving the integrity of the oral tissues.

Who should go see the dentist every 6 months?

Everyone in the family should keep up with their regular dental cleanings. Starting when a little one either cuts their first tooth or has their first birthday, whichever comes first, it’s time to start those biannual preventive dental appointments.

When should I see the dentist more often?

Sometimes life gets in the way of our plans, and that includes dental appointments. If you have gum disease, you will need more frequent cleanings. If you need more in-depth work like a crown or bridge, you’ll come in between your regular checkups to get that taken care of. Other reasons include dental emergencies like severe toothaches, dental trauma, or tooth infections.

If you’re not sure if you need to come in, don’t be afraid to call your dentist’s office!

Take care of yourself.

There are countless reasons why you should visit your family dentist at least every 6 months. Sure, life happens, and schedules get crazy. But it is always a good idea to stay on top of your health—teeth included.
If you need to get in for a cleaning, contact us today to schedule a time that works for you. An appointment is only a few clicks away.