Let’s face it, we’ve all avoided a dental exam or cleaning here or there. Life can get hectic or maybe you have that dreaded dental anxiety stopping you from receiving treatment. While some patients feel the urge to skip the dentist, here’s the truth, Neglecting dental appointments can harm your oral and overall health.
Patients should try to visit their dentist every six months for a cleaning and exam. Not only does visiting your dentist help keep your teeth and gums healthy but your dentist can help prevent things like tooth decay and gum disease. Gum disease can lead to more serious issues like infection and abscesses if not treated. Along with infection, Gum disease has been linked to pneumonia, rheumatoid arthritis, and Alzheimer’s disease. Remember your body works together with your mouth so they both need continued care.
THE GOOD, THE BAD, & THE BACTERIAL INFECTION
Plaque is an enemy to your oral health. It begins to develop on your teeth the moment you take your first bite or sip of anything other than water. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that erodes your tooth enamel and damages healthy tooth structure. That’s why cavities are often referred to as the number one indicator of plaque damage. While you may not worry about one cavity, letting plaque run rampant can lead to serious oral health issues.
Brushing after consuming sugary/acidic drinks and foods is one way to help control plaque build up. Although brushing and flossing your teeth at home are great habits to have they don’t reach every area in your mouth to break up plaque. That’s why we recommend visiting your dentist every six months for a professional dental cleaning. Our dental hygienist’s can remove tartar (calcified plaque) along your gumline and between your teeth that you are unable to reach at home. Left untreated, tartar and bacteria can lead to cavities, gum disease, tooth loss and even worsen diabetes and heart disease. Plus, removing excess bacteria from your mouth will prevent bad breath.
WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR NEXT DENTAL CHECK UP
The experienced dental team at Cyprus Family Dental is skilled at preventing and treating developing problems sooner than later. This allows us to treat the problem while it is still small, less invasive, and usually less expensive. When you come for you next dental exam and cleaning, you can expect the following:
- Plaque buildup and tartar removal
- Tooth stain removal from enamel polish
- Screening for tooth decay and gum disease
- Dental x-rays when needed
- Oral cancer screening
- Teeth checked for cavities, cracks, and chips
- A jaw and bite evaluation for abnormalities
- Examination of current tooth restorations
- Treatment put in place for any current issues
- A review of your at-home care if needed and recommendations for better care/products
- Answers to your questions and concerns
IT’S IMPORTANT NOT TO SKIP DENTAL VISITS
We know, skipping your dentist appointment is tempting. Dental visits can be tough to work into your busy schedule. Plus, they can be nerve-wracking. But tooth decay ( cavities ) and gum disease can cause toothaches and even lead tooth loss. Regular dental exams allow us to detect these problems early and fix them before they hurt or cost you a lot of money!
If you experience any of the following, make a dental appointment today:
- Tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and beverages
- Toothaches or abscess around a tooth
- Pitting or a hole in a tooth
- Bleeding gums
- Constant bad breath
- Chipped or damaged tooth
- Mouth sores lasting more than a couple of weeks
GOOD DAILY ORAL HYGIENE IS KEY BETWEEN DENTAL CLEANINGS & EXAMS
Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using antibacterial mouthwash are the best things you can do for your teeth between dental cleanings & exams. Drinking plenty of water, eating a nutritious diet, and avoiding sugary or acidic foods and beverages will also help keep your mouth clean and healthy. If you’ve neglected your oral care at home or maybe you’ve missed an appointment here and there, don’t worry. Our caring dental team is happy to help you get your oral health back on track. At Cyprus Family Dental we strive to give you the tools you need to have a healthy and happy smile. Call 801-250-0203 today to schedule a dental cleaning and exam, or contact us here.