Dental exams are an easy thing to forget on your to-do list, especially if you don’t suffer from any tooth pain. But preventative dental care is just as important as other preventative health measures. Learn more below.
3 Reasons to Schedule Your Next Teeth Cleaning Right Now
Prevent pain and expenses down the road
One reason people often avoid regular dental exams? Many times, you don’t see any short-term benefits. However, the long-term benefits shouldn’t be ignored. The longer you wait to see a dentist, the longer a tooth or gum issue could exist and worsen. This can lead to toothaches and pain. And the more severe and far along the problem is, the more a procedure to treat it can cost.
An example of this? Gum disease. Gum disease, also known as gingivitis, occurs when bacteria build up in your mouth and leads to inflammation. And the negative effects of gum disease go beyond just your dental health — it has also been linked to heart attacks and dementia.
Another example is oral cancer. Oral cancer can prove fatal, so the key to avoiding this serious issue? Early detection. Make sure your dentist has the opportunity to catch any dental health issue before it becomes a serious problem.
Discuss common dental health mistakes and issues
Seeing a dentist is a great opportunity to discuss ways to improve your smile, starting with your everyday habits. Talk through strategies to help stop these common bad habits that can affect both the appearance and health of your smile:
- Jaw clenching
- Teeth grinding
- Brushing your teeth too hard
- Smoking or chewing tobacco
- Drinking coffee, red wine, and/or soda
- Chewing on ice, pens, pencils, or your nails
- Opening packages or bottles with your teeth
Enjoy a clean, beautiful smile
During a regular dental exam, the dentist or dental hygienist will clean your teeth thoroughly, removing any plaque or stains. This can help ensure your teeth stay white and bright.
Don’t forget to make you and your family’s dental health a priority. Book a tooth cleaning at your local dentist every six months. Are you looking for a dentist in Wilmington, North Carolina? Schedule a dental exam near you today.