Checkups and cleanings are the most well-known reason to visit the dentist. They’re also the most important, since your regular visits are necessary to keep your teeth and gums clean, healthy, and free of disease. Still, checkup and cleaning appointments don’t always seem so important, and many patients postpone or simply ignore theirs. It should be no surprise, then, that the large majority of adults have dental health issues, especially cavities, that could have been prevented.
1. Literally everyone needs them.
From young patients just beginning to show their teeth to elder patients who only retain a few of theirs, literally everyone should visit their dentist on a regular basis. Every day, your oral health is under threat from oral bacteria, which form plaque and tartar. Also, bite issues like bruxism and TMJ disorder can manifest for a variety of reasons, and regular dental visits are your best bet at correcting them early.
2. They could save you money by saving your teeth.
When a tooth is damaged or decaying, or when you exhibit gum disease or other dental issues, the problem grows worse the longer it is left untreated. Routine cleanings and dental examinations allow your dentist to keep a close eye on your dental health to detect and address such issues while they’re still relatively minor. The longer you wait, the more extensive and expensive your treatment may become.
3. They could save your life.
Tooth loss isn’t the only reason why your dental health is important. Studies have shown that the prolonged presence of dental diseases – particularly gum disease – can have a negative impact on your overall health. As a chronic inflammatory disease, gum disease can increase risks of other inflammation-related illnesses, including cardiovascular disease, rheumatoid arthritis, type II diabetes, and more. Visiting your dentist minimizes your risks of severe gum disease, and consequently, your risks of related chronic illnesses.
