Guest Blog: 10 Benefits of Regularly Visiting the Dentist

by Harper Reid

Image Source: Pixabay

Twice a year. This is the recommended number of times that you should be visiting the dentist according to most dental experts. This number may even be higher for some at-risk people, such as smokers, diabetics, pregnant women and those who are currently suffering from gum disease or have a tendency to get cavities, infections or a build-up of plaque.

Most people are familiar with the benefits of brushing their teeth twice a day, yet many people baulk at the idea of going to the dentist. So why are these regular dentist visits so important?

• Education

Regular dental check-ups are the ideal opportunity to learn about proper oral care and have your questions answered, such as the difference between the many types of toothpaste on the market. Dentists are a far more reliable source than generic websites, and they will be able to provide up-to-date information and advice on how best to maintain healthy teeth and gums.

• Increase the health of your mouth

One of the main benefits of visiting the dentist regularly is that he will check your teeth, tongue, gums and mouth for any issues. Identifying and remedying any dental issues quickly and as early as possible decreases the likelihood of developing serious oral health problems and ensures that your mouth is as healthy as possible.

• Remove the build-up of plaque and tartar

Plaque and tartar are the root cause of many dental problems, which can be avoided by regular cleaning at the dentist. Plaque hardens and becomes tartar if not removed. This can lead to cavities, irritation and the potential for gum disease to develop. Tartar cannot be easily removed by standard brushing. However, the dentist has special tools to remove this build-up in a process called “scaling”.

• Reduce cavities

Cavities are not only painful, but they can lead to complications and develop into serious health issues. For example, life-threatening septicaemia can occur when infection from untreated cavities is transferred into the bloodstream.

• Reduce risk of gingivitis

Gingivitis is a gum disease caused by the build-up of plaque and poor dental hygiene, highlighting the importance of teeth cleaning. Gingivitis can cause irritation, bleeding and inflammation of the gums. This can potentially result in tooth-loss or other serious issues including periodontal disease that can destroy both gums and bone.

• Reduce inflammation

Your dentist can help reduce any inflammation before it becomes a serious health issue. Inflammation increases your vulnerability to disease that may be the underlying cause of many chronic health issues. It has even been linked to premature ageing.

• Prevent tooth decay and tooth loss

The poster child for the importance of regular dental visits, tooth decay and tooth loss can both cause you pain and cost you money in the long run. The early detection of oral issues will help to prevent the complete loss of your teeth and reduces the likelihood of requiring dentures or dental implants in the future.

• Screen for oral cancers

The early identification and treatment of oral cancer may save your life. Regular examinations will ensure that your gums and surrounding tissues are healthy and that there are no cancerous tissues present.

 

 

• Create a better smile

The dentist will often polish your teeth, removing any surface stains and enhancing your already beautiful smile. For severe staining, you may have the option of veneers, which are an ultra-thin porcelain or composite resin shell that is fixed to the tooth, or you could undergo a teeth whitening procedure. You can also discuss the possibility of other dental procedures, such as dental restoration or straightening if desired.

• Promote good overall health

Improving your overall health is one of the benefits of stronger teeth. A healthy mouth decreases the amount of harmful bacteria you swallow. A healthy mouth also allows you to eat (and enjoy!) the food that is necessary to keep you happy, healthy, energetic and able to enjoy life to the fullest.

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A grin spreads across Harper’s face when she wakes up, even on Mondays, because she loves her job! Spending hours engrossed in creative writing is her dream come true. Over the years, she has worked with numerous lovely blogs and has also written for local sites such as Working In NZ. Harper shares her published work on WordPress.