General Dentistry: Why Dental Checkups are Necessary

General Dentist Merrick, NY

Even though good home care is important, general dentistry checkups are still essential for healthy teeth and gums. Time and research have shown that seeing a dentist every six months can help improve your oral health. There are numerous benefits that come from seeing a dentist on a regular basis, while failing to do so could increase your risks for complications.

The benefits of routine general dentistry checkups

Even if your teeth appear to be healthy and you have not noticed any troublesome symptoms, you should have your teeth checked and cleaned at least twice a year. Doing so can be very beneficial for your dental and overall health.

Lower risks of tooth decay and gum disease

Your teeth develop a film of plaque from the foods and beverages you consume. If this plaque is not removed by brushing and flossing, it can harden into tartar buildup. Tartar cannot be removed by brushing alone and requires professional cleaning for thorough and safe removal.

Tartar buildup increases the risks of developing cavities and gum disease. When left untreated, tooth decay can lead to infection or tooth loss. Gum disease can also cause these problems, along with increasing your risks for other serious health conditions, including:

  • Stroke
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Diabetes
  • Arthritis

Seeing a dentist can help reduce the unnecessary risks for potentially harmful health conditions.

A more beautiful smile

Plaque and tartar buildup can do more than cause cavities and decay. They can also lead to staining and unsightly tooth discoloration. Routine cleanings can prevent this for a whiter, brighter, and more beautiful smile.

Less invasive dental work

If you are dealing with decay or gum disease, the sooner you receive treatment, the more likely you are to have better options. Minor cavities may only need a sealant or a small filling. The early stages of gum disease may only require deep cleaning. However, if you wait too long to be seen by a dentist, you may require more invasive dental work, such as crowns, root canals, or even tooth extraction.

Early detection of serious issues

Routine general dentistry checkups are not just about cleanings. At these appointments, dentists conduct important tests and screenings to evaluate dental health below the surface. Simple visual exams and X-rays can often lead to the early detection of serious issues, including oral cancer and bone loss. The earlier these conditions are diagnosed, the better the chances of a positive outcome.

Lower risks for dental anxiety

People of all ages should see a dentist twice a year starting around age 1. These checkups help patients learn to be more comfortable at the office and can help prevent or reduce dental anxiety. Waiting to see a dentist until serious work is needed can make dental anxiety worse.

Conclusion

Even people with strong and healthy teeth should see a dental professional every six months. If you are tempted to skip an appointment, remember the benefits you can forfeit and the risks you will assume in doing so. See a dentist on a regular basis for better oral and overall health.

Request an appointment here: https://merrick.davincidentalarts.org or call Da Vinci Dental Arts of Merrick at (516) 377-1300 for an appointment in our Merrick office.

Related Posts

Can A Deep Dental Cleaning Treat Gum Disease?

Deep dental cleaning is a way to treat severe cases of gum disease. However, it is not always necessary for all cases of gum disease. By understanding when and why a dentist recommends a deep dental cleaning, you can feel more comfortable throughout the consultation and treatment process. Every dentist utilizes deep dental cleaning differently and…

Teeth Whitening: A Common Cosmetic Dental Service

Professionals who perform cosmetic dental services know that a confident smile is a universal symbol of health and happiness. Unfortunately, many people experience teeth discoloration and staining over time. This is where teeth whitening, a widely sought-after cosmetic dental service, can help. This review discusses teeth whitening, including the different methods, benefits, and processes and…

Cosmetic Dental Services: Options For Whiter Teeth

Many people look to cosmetic dental services when they want a whiter smile. Though teeth whitening from a dentist is an excellent choice for many patients, some patients get better results with other options such as dental veneers, dental bonding, or a combination of treatments. If you are considering teeth whitening and want to know…

Dental Bridges Vs. Implants: Which Is The Better Tooth Replacement Option?

When deciding between two popular tooth replacement options, such as dental bridges or dental implants, consulting a dentist is key. Bridges have long been a trusted solution, while implants are modern and innovative. However, when recommending an option, a dentist will consider factors like oral health, personal preferences, and lifestyle needs.Dental bridges are the traditional…