Why is my regular dental check-up so important?
A regular dental check-up is of the utmost necessity to keep your oral health in the best form. Your dentists can check your oral health and give you instructions to help keep your mouth in top condition. At your regular dental visits, your dentist checks for cavities, plaque, and tartar on your teeth. The build-up of plaque leads to hard tartar which, left for long periods of time on your teeth, can cause Periodontal (Gum) disease if not treated. Gum disease can occur in people of all ages and often goes undetected by the patient if they neglect to see a dentist for long periods of time. This disease is often painless and insidious, it is irreversible but can be managed with the help of your dentist.
Visiting your dentist regularly also means early signs of tooth decay can be treated to prevent the formation of tooth aches/abscesses which can lead to the loss of a tooth or more costly dental care.
Oral cancer – what is it?
At your dental check-up the dentist will also examine your tongue, face, throat, head, and neck to screen for any signs of possible oral cancer. Oral cancer is one of the world’s most common cancers, with over 900 new intraoral carcinoma cases registered in Australia each year – approximately 6.5 per cent of all cancers diagnosed in Australia. Oral cancer can affect the tongue, lips, cheeks, and soft palate of the mouth. You have an increased risk of oral cancer if you regularly smoke or drink. In such cases, it is essential to schedule dentist appointments regularly.
What can you do?
While you can be attentive to your oral health through regular flossing and cleaning of your teeth at home, including the limiting of sugar intake in your diet, these efforts are not enough. You need to visit a dentist twice a year to maintain healthy teeth and for professional teeth cleaning with a thorough examination.
Why can’t I just “professionally” clean my own teeth?
Dentist and dental hygienists have the best professional tools to access every part of your mouth – even the areas that cannot be reached by brushing and flossing. They can help you to clean under the gum line, where tartar and bacteria are most likely to accumulate.
Save your teeth and money
Following dental hygiene rules and regular visits to the dentist can prove to be beneficial in keeping your teeth and body healthy. With good care taken towards your oral health, you can save your teeth from decaying and save money on costly dental treatments.
