Why You Should See A Dentist Regularly

(Image by mfprince via Flickr)

Visiting the dentist a couple times a year may not be your idea of fun, but it’s an appointment you need to keep. Before you decide to skip your next check-up because you think everything is okay or you can’t afford it, make sure you consider all the risks. Here are 6 reasons why you should regularly visit the dentist:

1. Watch Out for Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is a serious disease and if it is not diagnosed early, it can be life threatening. Early-stage oral cancer, though, can be treatable. With regular check-ups at accredited Sydney dentists, you increase your chances of catching oral cancer early and successfully treating it.

2. Cavities, Plaque, and Tartar

Even if you are the most diligent flosser and brusher, there are still tiny areas in your mouth that can be missed. Once plaque begins to build up, it can be hard to remove and it then turns into tartar. Regular dental appointments help to prevent tartar from eroding your teeth or causing holes. Cavities do not tend to give warning signs, but result in minor tooth ache once your tooth has decayed. All of this can be avoided with regular teeth cleaning.

3. Prevent Gum Disease

Tartar and plaque build-up also erode your gum tissue when the tartar causes an infection and causes the gum to pull away from the tooth. This, in turn, becomes gum disease. Treatment of gum disease can include deep cleaning, surgery, and medication, all of which can be costly. To avoid this from happening to you, regular visits to the dentist are essential in catching gum disease.

4. Eliminate Bad Habits

There are several bad habits that have a negative impact on oral health, including biting your nails, drinking coffee, smoking, and clenching your jaw. With regular check-ups, you dentist will check for oral damage and advise you on how to alter your lifestyle to prevent any further damage.

5. X-Rays Help Find Underlying Problems

One of the most important reasons to visit a dentist at least twice a year is to get your jaw bone and teeth x-rayed. The images allow the dentist to see what’s going on beneath the surface and helps them find and diagnose issues that they may not otherwise see. Such problems include impacted teeth.

X-rays also help to pinpoint damage to your jawbone, swelling, tumours, cysts, and bone decay.

6. Lymph Node, Neck, and Head Checks

Did you know that dentists also check your lymph nodes, neck, and head for any lumps, swellings, and other abnormalities? If something is found, it may be a sign of a health issue.

Make Sure You Book Your Dental Appointment

Dentists don’t only worry about fixing your teeth, they clean them, aim to make sure your gums are health, and check for a range of abnormalities that could go unnoticed. A dental professional will also ensure your bones are strong and can help you correct any bad habits that have an impact on your oral health. Skipping appointments is a big deal. Make sure you regularly visit your dentists and keep your oral health in check.


*This article is published in partnership with Mediabuzzer. For further info, read my disclaimer here.