We all understand the importance of following a good dental hygiene routine; regular brushing, eating the right foods, and flossing but it is just as important to make sure that you have regular dental check-ups as well. These should take place every six months, or as recommended by your dentist.
Having a regular dental check-up can help in the early detection of issues with your teeth and gums.
Early detection
You might think that your teeth are fine, and on the surface that might be right, but your dentist is able to have a much more detailed look inside your mouth. Regular dental checks will look for cavities in your teeth, they will also check for a build-up of plaque which may need to be removed. Your dentist doesn’t just check your teeth they will also check your gums for any signs of gum disease.
Perhaps the most important reason to see your dentist for regular check-ups is the fact that can help in the early detection of more serious issues such as gum disease or oral cancer.
Oral cancer
It goes without saying but oral cancer is a very dangerous disease, and one that should be taken very seriously. It has a number of different symptoms and unfortunately, they are not all that obvious. Early detection is essential and without it, oral cancer can progress quickly to the stage where it is life threatening. The easiest way to spot those all-important potential early warning signs is through regular dental check-ups. Catching it early massively increases the chances of successfully treating it. Making regular check-ups all that more important.
Cost
If the cost is what is putting you off visiting the dentist on a regular basis then it is worth considering the alternative. If you have a dental problem that is not identified early enough, because you haven’t been having those all-important check-ups, then you may find yourself needing more costly dental treatment to correct an issue. There is of course also the cost to your health if you have a more serious issue such as oral cancer that isn’t caught soon enough. These costs can be more than financial. You might think that your teeth are healthy but remember your dentist can see far more than you can, and early detection of gum disease and oral cancer is vital in order to make sure that your health does not suffer.
Choosing a dentist
If you already have a dentist, then make sure that you and your family are having seeing them for regular check-ups. If, however you do not currently have a dentist, for whatever reason, then you should find one. Whether you are looking for a dentist in Stockport or one further afield, ask around and find one who you will feel comfortable visiting, the key thing is start making sure you have those all-important regular check-ups.