Do I really need to get dental checkups every six months?

Do I really need to get dental checkups every six months?

Charlottesville dentistSome patients feel that they just can’t fit in semiannual appointments with their dentist, while others may avoid these visits out of dental fear. However, if you’re tempted to put off your exams and cleanings, you may suffer some pretty serious consequences for your oral health. There are many compelling reasons to schedule this routine care every six months.

First of all, it’s best to have your dentist monitor your teeth and gums at regular intervals so that any symptoms of oral diseases can be identified early and the patient can get prompt treatment.

If any oral diseases are allowed to progress, they can do significant damage to the stability of your smile. Large cavities or advanced gum disease can result in the loss of teeth and even jawbone material.

Furthermore, if you postpone treatment until an oral disease is in a later stage, the treatment is likely to be more involved and extensive. For example, a small cavity can be addressed with a filling, while large areas of decay may necessitate a larger restoration, like a crown, or even an extraction followed by dental implant placement.

Patients are also screened for oral cancer at their checkups, and this can truly be a lifesaving matter. Oral cancer is readily treatable when detected in its earliest stages. Semiannual checkups give you a better chance of catching oral cancer early through a biopsy.

Additionally, these regularly scheduled appointments help patients to keep their teeth clean. You may brush and floss daily, but particles of food and bacteria can still linger despite your best efforts to keep them away. A dental hygienist can clear away plaque and tartar from different angles and get to areas that you may not be able to reach easily. Furthermore, they can use professional-grade instruments for a deeper cleaning.

It’s important to get your dental checkups every six months to protect your oral health and minimize the need for invasive interventions to treat any oral diseases that develop. If you’ve gotten off track with this important health habit, get back on schedule as soon as you can.