Brushing and flossing are effective in removing food residue and plaque to keep your mouth healthy, but they aren’t enough to keep preventable dental problems at bay. The American Dental Association recommends visiting your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup. If you’re skipping your semi-annual checkups, you’re at risk of several serious dental issues. Here’s how you can benefit from early detection by visiting your dentist regularly.
Oral Health and Overall Wellness Are Connected
Did you know that your dental health and overall wellness are connected? Various dental problems can increase your risk of health conditions. In particular, gum disease is known to increase the risk of heart attacks, Alzheimer’s, diabetes, and many other potentially life-threatening issues. In addition, certain health issues can affect your teeth and gums.
Routine appointments allow your dentist to monitor your dental health for any changes to keep your mouth and body healthy.
Avoid Tooth Loss and Costly Procedures
Teeth are supposed to last for a lifetime, but 120 million Americans are missing at least one tooth. Cavities and gum disease are leading causes of tooth loss, despite being almost 100% preventable.
Researchers have found that 92% of adults will experience cavities and 50% of Americans have a form of gum disease. Visiting your dentist twice a year allows your dentist to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
They can spot the early signs of tooth decay or gum inflammation to provide the quick care you need to prevent the issue from worsening. As a result, you’re less likely to need costly treatments later. Researchers have found that every $1 of preventive care may save up to $50 on restorative services. Visiting your dentist now can save you money down the road.
Reduce Your Risk of Dental Emergencies
1 in 6 Americans will suffer a dental emergency this year. Accidents and injuries aren’t the only cause. Many dental emergencies are the result of untreated oral issues, like cavities. Semi-annual appointments allow your dentist to check your mouth for anything that may turn into a big problem. The issue can be addressed quickly to avoid a dental emergency.
Regular Oral Cancer Screenings
54,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer every year. Although it is easy to detect and treat when caught early, it is responsible for 9,750 deaths annually. Roughly 1 person every hour succumbs to oral cancer, which is attributed to late detection.
Regular dental checkups involve more than examining your teeth and gums. Your dentist will also perform an oral cancer screening to benefit from the power of early detection.
You can use your dental insurance to visit your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup. You’ll enjoy 100% coverage for preventive dental care for a co-payment.
About Dr. Stephen C. Brown
Dr. Brown completed his dental training at Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry and has continued his education in many specialties, including preventive and cosmetic dentistry. He is a proud member of the American Dental Association and the Virginia Dental Association. Request an appointment through his website or call his office at (804) 348-1555.