Kate's Fear of TMJ

5 Reasons To See A Dentist On A Regular Basis

People of all ages should see a dentist twice a year for a checkup. However, some people skip these visits if they are not experiencing problems with their teeth. Although going to the dental office is not the most exciting activity, it is necessary.

Here are a few reasons to visit your dentist on a regular basis.

Catch Oral Health Issues Early

Just because you do not feel pain or discomfort does not mean that your oral health is in good shape. Cavities, for example, usually aren't painful in the early stages, so you may not realize you have them. If you wait too long to treat cavities, they will get worse and may require a root canal.

A dentist can identify early signs of oral health problems and treat them promptly.

Educate You on Proper Oral Hygiene Techniques

You are never too old to learn better oral hygiene techniques. If you visit your dentist regularly, he or she can teach you how to improve your oral hygiene routine. For instance, if you suffer from arthritis and have trouble handling a standard toothbrush, your dentist may suggest getting an electric toothbrush.

Treat Bad Breath

Bad breath is a common yet embarrassing issue. If you can't seem to reduce bad breath, your dentist may be able to help. He or she may recommend a mouthwash that kills bad breath–causing bacteria.

If your bad breath is caused by gum disease, your dentist may refer you to a periodontist. 

Detect Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is a serious health condition, but it's highly treatable if detected early. That is another reason why you should see your dentist regularly. He or she can perform an exam every year to detect oral cancer. 

Reduce Your Risk of Heart Disease

Believe it or not, your oral health can affect other parts of your body, including your heart. If you, for example, have gum disease, the bacteria can travel to your bloodstream and increase your risk of having a heart attack.

If you visit your dentist on a regular basis, he or she can detect early signs of gum disease and treat it before it affects your heart. 

As you can see, there are a lot of benefits of seeing your dentist twice a year. If it has been a while since your last checkup, you should schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.

To learn more, contact a family dentist.


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