The American Dental Association recommends having a basic dental checkup and cleaning every six months to prevent common oral concerns and maintain your smile. Despite this, sources estimate that only approximately 40% to 45% of adults in the United States visit their dentist annually, and over 30% to 40% only visit when a problem arises.
You might not think you need an appointment if you don’t see obvious concerns, but unfortunately, skipping standard visits might damage your grin. Continue reading to learn about 3 potential consequences of avoiding routine exams!
Issue #1: Gum Disease
Many people only consider their teeth when they think of their oral health, but your connective tissues are equally as essential to your smile. Without them, there would be nothing to keep your pearly whites firmly in place. In fact, periodontitis, or advanced gum disease, is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults.
Unfortunately, gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, often remains untreated because it doesn’t always exhibit noticeable symptoms until it progresses. But this can be prevented with professional exams and cleanings that clear away even the most stubborn plaque and tartar buildup.
Issue #2: Hidden Cavities
If you’re thinking about cancelling an upcoming dental exam because you’re convinced your mouth is healthy, you might want to reconsider. Not only might you have developed gum disease and not know it, but it’s also possible to have cavities in places that are difficult to see or clean on your own at home. For instance, you might not notice decay between two teeth or behind your molars.
Meanwhile, your dentist has the experience and state-of-the-art equipment to quickly identify caries and provide a treatment plan, such as restoring your enamel with a tooth-colored filling.
Issue #3: Other Health Concerns
Would you be surprised to learn that your oral health can significantly affect your general health and vice versa? For instance, the infection caused by untreated gum disease can enter your bloodstream and travel to other systems, wreaking havoc along the way. This increases the risk of developing conditions such as diabetes, heart problems, and stroke, and those prone to these conditions may also be more likely to have dental issues. Investing in proper prevention, such as regular dental visits, can therefore also help protect your overall well-being.
Not only that, but routine checkups and cleanings are usually less costly than treatments required to address problems that have already occurred. That means that standard visits can help preserve your budget as well as your health, and that’s certainly something to smile about!
About the Practice
At Elwood Avenue Dental, you and your family benefit from a team of dentists eager to help you build and maintain your healthiest, most beautiful smiles. They share decades of combined experience, and today, they collaborate to offer a comprehensive menu of services conveniently under one roof. Whether you require basic preventive services or a more complex treatment, they have the experience and advanced technology to deliver accurate results intended to last. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (918) 299-2298.