Dental professionals typically recommend visiting the general dentistry office for checkups regularly. Those who visit the dentist are less prone to developing a serious oral condition that may need extensive procedures, and that is just one of the many benefits of routine dental checkups. Continue reading to find out more about the importance of visiting the dentist.
Dental checkups are an important part of preventive dentistry care. The following are some of the ways checkups play an important part in oral health:
Even those with the most meticulous oral hygiene routine may find it hard to clean the crevices or hard-to-reach areas of their mouth. Therefore, every patient should visit the general dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning. During the appointment, the dentist will check the patient’s teeth for any sign of cavities. If there are small spots on the teeth, they may immediately provide fluoride varnish to reverse the decay or provide dental fillings if the cavity is large.
Afterward, patients will undergo professional dental cleaning to eliminate plaque and tartar from the oral cavity. This will help prevent the development of gum disease and tooth decay and reduce bacteria present in the mouth.
Gum disease in its early stages is symptomless. This means patients will not know if they are dealing with the onset of gum disease, called gingivitis. Fortunately, the dentist can detect signs of gum disease no matter how subtle.
During the checkup, the dentist will check if the gums are firmly attached to the tooth. They will look for signs of recession, swelling or inflammation, and deep periodontal pockets. The dental professional will provide treatment immediately if they discover any symptoms. Generally, gingivitis is reversible with good oral hygiene, and the dentist can provide specific instructions on how to care for the teeth and gums.
Aside from examining the teeth and gums, the dentist will also screen for oral cancer. Oral cancer, when diagnosed early, can be treated successfully. The condition can be life-threatening if it reaches the advanced stage undetected. The dentist will check for tumors and other abnormal signs around the tissues of the oral cavity.
Besides oral cavity exams, the dentist will also check the head and neck for swelling, lumps, or illness signs. They will also check the lymph nodes and lower jaw joints. Upon discovering any sign of a problem, the patient will be referred to the right medical professional for treatment.
Every aspect of the dental checkup is important and ensures that the patient’s oral health needs are identified and addressed. It would help if you remembered that the dental checkup at the general dentistry office only augments your oral hygiene efforts at home. It is possible to prevent most oral issues by practicing good oral health habits at home. If you have not visited the general dentist in more than six months, consider booking an appointment.
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