Few people look forward to going to the dentist. And that’s too bad, because seeing the dentist on a routine basis for checkups and cleanings is one of the smartest things you can do to improve your health and your confidence. Here are five ways regular dental checkups can help you stay healthier:
5 Benefits of Regular Checkups
Seeing the dentist every six months can help you:
- Prevent tooth loss. About 120 million people have one or more missing teeth thanks to deep decay and gum disease, a chronic condition caused by bacteria that work their way down to the tooth roots, where they cause infection, inflammation, and tooth loss. Having routine dental checkups is the best way to catch decay and gum disease in their earliest stages so they can be treated before serious infections and tooth loss occurs.
- Enjoy a more beautiful smile. Routine checkups allow the hygienist to get rid of stains and tartar that make your teeth look dull and dingy. Plus, you’ll learn better brushing techniques so you can maintain your beautiful smile and prevent tartar build-up between visits.
- Have fresher breath. Tartar and plaque don’t just cause dinginess – they also contribute to chronic bad breath. Untreated tooth decay and gum disease can also cause foul odors. Seeing the dentist regularly is a good way to ensure your breath is always fresh, and it’s also important for diagnosing and treating chronic dry mouth, another contributor to both bad breath and increased tooth decay.
- Improve your overall health. Multiple studies suggest the bacteria involved in gum disease may also contribute to other diseases, including heart disease and stroke. Routine checkups and cleanings remove built-up bacteria, which could play a role in helping you prevent serious medical problems.
- Prevent oral cancer. Regular dental checkups enable your dentist to screen for early signs of oral cancer so treatment can be provided as early as possible.
Take the next step toward better oral health. Routine dental checkups are quick – typically less than an hour every six months – but the benefits can last a lifetime.
If it’s been a while since your last checkup, take a moment to call Woodlane Family & Cosmetic Dentistry at (651) 731-1560 and schedule your visit today.
