We all know that for a killer kodak smile and gleaming healthy gums, brushing twice a day and having a strong daily flossing routine is essential. But, did you also know that for long-term, disease-free dental health, the importance of regular oral hygiene check-ups is also just as crucial?
It’s true, and there are many reasons why so let’s get into them.
THE IMPORTANCE OF REGULAR ORAL HYGIENE CHECK UPS: THE TOP 3 BENEFITS
We might be a little biassed, but the importance of regular oral hygiene check-ups is undeniable. Hopping in the dental chair isn’t just for when you have a toothache or pain in your mouth. In fact, a routine visit to the dentist is the best way to prevent any serious dental problems or diseases, saving you time, money and pain in the long run!
1. Regular oral hygiene check-ups identify dental problems early
Regular visits to the dentist helps us to catch problems early when they are easier to treat. Most dental issues have visible signs that a dentist can identify at your check-up. When you can feel pain or discomfort in your mouth, your body is trying to tell you something is not right.
Here are some common issues that we can detect early on if you maintain a regular oral hygiene schedule…
Cavities:
Did you know that you can reverse tooth decay and avoid getting a filling if it’s detected early in the piece? Seeing a dentist every six months makes it almost impossible for decay to get to the point of needing a filling.
Gum disease:
According to healthdirect three in every 10 adults have moderate to severe gum disease. Brushing and flossing alone aren’t enough to keep your gums healthy. Even the most dextrous brushers and flossers can’t reach every area of their teeth and gums. The result? Plaque accumulation.
The build-up of plaque and tartar on the teeth can lead to gingivitis – the swelling, inflammation and weakening of your gums. When left untreated, gingivitis can worsen and develop into more severe issues like periodontal disease.
Symptoms of periodontal disease include red, tender or swollen gums, painful chewing, loose teeth and receding gums. Unfortunately, if periodontal disease is left untreated, it can result in the loss of teeth.
Oral cancer:
This is another disease that we can detect in its early stages. As part of your regular visit, your dentist will check for early warning signs of oral cancer.
2. Regular oral hygiene check-ups keep your smile stunning!
Life is too short to be self-conscious about showing off your smile. This is where your regular dental check-ups work magic.
Consider yourself to have a whole lot of flossing finesse? It’s still best to visit a dentist for a professional check-up and clean to keep your smile looking bright and healthy.
As dentists we can spot issues that go unnoticed by the naked and untrained eye. This allows us to remove any stains that you are unable to remove yourself at home.
The process of cleaning is known as scaling. It involves special equipment, typically with ultrasonic scalers to provide a deep clean within the gum line. After scaling, your dentist will consider polishing. This will further clear the tooth surface of any stains or plaque for a gorgeous and glistening finish.
3. Regular oral hygiene check-ups save money long term
They say an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. This couldn’t be more true when it comes to your dental health. When you’re juggling expenses, it can be hard to prioritise a regular dentist trip. But avoiding regular check-ups could end up costing you more down the track.
Preventative dentistry helps you to avoid minor problems from becoming major ones. It’s all about regular maintenance to ward off more serious issues and extensive dental treatment in the future.
This can make a big difference to not just your physical health but also your financial health too. A regular dental check-up is often far more affordable than the cost of treating dental diseases or having more complex dental procedures.
WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR ORAL HYGIENE CHECK UP
Do you get nervous about visiting the dentist? These jitters are totally normal. Fortunately nowadays there is so much we can do to put your mind at ease, giving you a relaxing visit. This is because unlike the old days, a regular oral health check-up uses innovative technology that makes examining and cleaning your mouth comfortable and non-invasive.
First, your dentist will observe your general health. They will also note whether you have had any concerns since your last visit.
After you have settled into the chair, it’s time to review your teeth. Your dentist will check for cavities, plaque and tartar. They will also examine your gums and the spaces between your teeth and gums for any signs of disease.
Next it’s time to clean, scale and polish. First you will receive a deep cleaning above and below the gum line. Once all the surfaces are cleaned, they are polished to remove stains and leave your teeth smooth and shiny.
When your exam is finished, your dentist will discuss any treatment recommendations. Knowledge is power, so we may also chat about tooth brushing techniques, diet and nutrition.
If any issues were detected, a return visit may be required for some restoration work, for example, a filling or a crown. Your dentist will let you know if this is the case.
All in all you can expect a thorough examination of your teeth, gums and mouth that will leave you feeling informed, fresh and with peace of mind.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU GET A CHECK-UP?
At My Family Dental we recommend six monthly check-ups.
In some cases, we may recommend a different time frame based on your individual oral health needs. For instance, someone with a very low risk of dental problems will need to be seen less frequently than someone with more complex dental concerns.
The importance of regular oral hygiene check-ups is not something to sit on the fence about. They are the stitch in time that saves nine when it comes to avoiding dental diseases and benefiting your financial health.
If you haven’t been scheduling your regular dental check-ups, now is the perfect time to start! For the stunning smile you deserve and desire, book your regular check-up with us today.
BOOK YOUR NEXT APPOINTMENT HERE
This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics and to help begin the conversation with your dentist. It should not be used as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your health care professional prior to applying this information to your own personal circumstances.
