Do you go to the dentist every 6 months or twice a year as the American Dental Association recommends? If so, good for you for making your dental health a priority. If not, how long has it been since your last appointment? You are due for a cleaning and oral examination if it has been more than 6 months since your last visit to the dentist.
Why is it so important to go to the dentist for preventive dental care? Here are the top 3 reasons.
- Prevent Cavities and Periodontal disease. Brushing and flossing your teeth daily at home goes a long way toward preventing cavities and periodontal disease, but regular dental cleanings are also necessary. Your floss and toothbrush can remove food particles and some plaque from your teeth, but over time plaque will still accumulate. Plaque is a combination of food and drink particles that settle on the teeth. Plaque feeds the bacteria in your mouth that cause cavities.
Cavities are holes in the enamel of a tooth. The enamel is the hard outer layer of a tooth that protects the soft pulp inside. A cavity that is discovered early can be easily filled with no major problems. However, a cavity that grows deeper and reaches the soft pulp of the tooth can cause pain, infection, and possible loss of the tooth. Discovering cavities early can help you avoid unnecessary pain and save your tooth.
Periodontal disease is an inflammatory disease that affects the soft and hard structures that support the teeth. In its early stage, called gingivitis, the gums become swollen and red due to inflammation, which is the body’s natural response to the presence of harmful bacteria. In the more serious form of periodontal disease called periodontitis, the gums pull away from the tooth and supporting gum tissues are destroyed. Bone can be lost, and the teeth may loosen or eventually fall out. Brushing, flossing and regimented dental visits are important parts of dental health.
- Save Money. Visiting the dentist for regular cleanings and oral health examinations can help you save money. If you have dental insurance, preventive care is usually covered. Insurance providers know that they can save money as well by encouraging preventive care. Even if you pay for your dental cleanings out of pocket, you are decreasing your chances of developing cavities or other issues that could be more expensive to correct.
Preventive dental care does just what its name suggests: prevents more serious dental problems. If you develop cavities, need a root canal, or other restorative procedures, the cost for your dental care will go up. Even if you have insurance, it typically only covers a portion of restorative and advanced procedures. You could find yourself paying a significant amount out of pocket, especially if your plan includes a deductible that must be met before coverage begins. Keeping up with regular appointments helps keep your dental care costs low. And you get a free toothbrush.
- Preserve Your Overall Health. Dental health has been linked to overall health in many ways. Studies show that periodontal disease have a direct correlation to heart disease, diabetes and stroke. The concept is called the Oral-Systemic Link. Anytime that your gums bleed, billions of bacteria enter your bloodstream. As these bacteria are transported through the body in the bloodstream, they cause inflammation. Over a long period of time, this inflammation causes damage. My residents at Yale New Haven Hospital field referrals from Oncology, Orthopedics, Cardiology as well as other specialties before procedures are contemplated to make sure the oral environment is infection free.
Oral cancer screenings are another important part of preventive dental care. When dentists perform oral examinations, they also look for signs of cancer in the mouth, jaw, throat, and neck. With early detection, oral cancer has a high survival rate. Keeping up with your regular dental appointments means that any signs of oral cancer will be detected within 6 months, giving you greater chances of preventing the spread.
Get Preventive Care for the Whole Family at Golia Dental
If you or anyone else in your family is due for a dental cleaning and exam, Golia Dental is currently accepting new patients and welcoming back previous patients. No matter how long it has been since your last appointment, Golia Dental will provide you with the care you need. We are a family dental practice that serves patients of all ages.
Call (203) 248-7400 or contact us to schedule an appointment. We look forward to helping you stay on schedule with your dental care.