8 Health Benefits of Seeing Your Dentist on a Regular Basis
For many people, going to the dentist is the last thing they want to do. We find excuse after excuse to put off visiting the dentist because of the potential discomfort we may experience. But procrastination can cause serious medical issues. Focusing on the long-term health benefits of regularly visiting your local dentist in Palm Bay FL can be the motivation you need to spur a more proactive approach to your oral health.
8 Health Benefits of Regular Dental Visits
- Cleanings reduce the risk of heart disease
- Dental exams help detect oral cancer
- Treatment and prevention of gingivitis and periodontal disease
- Prevent tooth loss
- Early detection and treatment of cavities
- Dental x-rays detect hidden dental issues
- Instill good oral hygiene practices
- Reduce inflammation
Below we explore each of the health benefits you gain from seeing your dentist on a regular basis.
Regular Dental Cleaning Helps Reduce Risk of Heart Disease
Research shows that having your teeth professionally cleaned can help reduce your risk for heart attack and stroke. Chronic inflammation of the gums is behind this association. With regular cleaning and scaling, we can reduce inflammation-causing bacteria. As a result, the blood vessel function throughout the body is improved. Inflammation in our bodies has been linked to contributing to many diseases, especially cardiovascular disease.
Regular Dental Exams Help Detect Oral Cancer
Oral cancers pose a very serious health threat. Regular dental checkups by your Palm Bay dentist, can catch oral cancer much sooner and can be a life-saving health benefit. Some of the signs of oral cancers include sores that do not heal, unusual bleeding, or white patches on gums. Regular visits include tissue and gum examinations that ensure your oral tissues are healthy and that you have no malignant tissues that may require biopsies.
Treat and Prevent Gingivitis
Gingivitis gum disease can cause serious issues in our mouths. Gingivitis can lead to periodontal disease, where calculus (or tartar) builds up on the gum line and under our gums. This contributes to inflammation, which we now know is detrimental to our overall health. Your local dentist in Melbourne or Palm Bay FL is the best source of education and prevention on this issue.
Prevent Tooth Loss
Regular cleanings and checkups help prevent gum disease that can lead to tooth loss. Gingivitis can destroy the gum and bone, which is the anchor and support system for our teeth. Tooth decay can also cause tooth loss. Losing your permanent teeth can cause your teeth to shift which can have a detrimental effect on your oral health. [link to blog]
Early Detection and Treatment of Cavities
Cavities are not only painful but can become a serious health threat when left untreated. Cavities in and of themselves can cause infections, which, in turn, can cause problems. Infections in the mouth need to be treated seriously because they can potentially spread to the bloodstream. This can lead to a condition known as septicemia. Septicemia is a serious life-threatening infection that can get worse very quickly. It can arise from infections in the mouth and throughout the body.
X-Rays Can Detect Problems Early
Dental radiography allows your dentist to diagnose issues with your teeth and gums that can’t be easily detected on the surface. Bone decay in your jaw, tumors, tooth decay, impacted teeth, and other oral health issues may be present. X-rays aid in early detection and help your dentist treat these conditions before they advance and cause further damage.
Instill Good Oral Hygiene Practices in Children
Regular dental check-ups will help children understand the importance of taking care of their teeth. Your dentist will educate your child on proper brushing and flossing techniques and the importance of daily dental care habits. Visiting the dentist regularly helps children develop a positive attitude about oral care and dental checkups.
Related article: Start Your Children Off With Good Dental Habits
Reduce Inflammation
Experts have said that inflammation makes us more susceptible to aging and disease. In addition, systemic inflammation appears to be at the root of known chronic health conditions. Do you want to live a longer, healthier and happier life? Of course you do! So take action to prevent as much inflammation as you can. Because inflammation is a threat in the mouth, proper care, and dental check-ups are key to living a long and healthy life.
What’s Included in a Dental Check-up?
To reap the health benefits of seeing your dentist, the American Dental Association recommends dental checkups and cleaning every six months. However, more frequent visits may be necessary if you are at risk for oral health problems caused by smoking, diabetes, and periodontal disease.
During your checkup, the dentist will learn about your health history and recent changes in your oral health. The dentist will examine your entire mouth, tongue and gums for signs of inflammation, growths, tumors, and swollen glands. Your occlusion, or bite, will be checked. Any previous dental work will be checked, including fillings, implants, crowns, and other restorations. X-rays will allow your dentist to detect dental decay and other issues with your teeth and jaw bones. Cleaning will remove plaque and tartar on the surface and below the gum line to prevent gingivitis.
Your local dentist, such as our team here at Ultimate Smile Design, is here to help keep you healthy and happy. Schedule your next dental visit today and we’ll help give you the ultimate smile you deserve!
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in October 2015 and has been updated for completeness, freshness, and accuracy.