Why Should You Visit the Dentist?

National Dentist’s Day is right around the corner, and because of that, we wanted to share just a little bit about what makes our job so important to our patients! Dentists do more than meets the eye. We have special training to be able to properly care for your teeth in ways that go beyond simply brushing and flossing. Because of this, there are many benefits to going in for checkup appointments twice a year. So what exactly are those? We are here to let you know!

Clean Teeth

It should go without saying, that one of the main reasons to make a trip to the dentist each year is to have a professional cleaning. But the cleaning your dentist provides is a little more thorough than what you can accomplish with your toothbrush and floss. While these are important and useful, a hygienist has specific tools they use to get tough plaque and other build-up off your teeth. So while you may think your teeth are getting cleaned at home, over time your teeth will collect buildup that must be removed by a dental professional.

At the dentist’s office, dental hygienists and assistants can also show you how to brush properly. Believe it or not, there is a right way. They are trained to teach you how to maintain good oral health at home by brushing and flossing.

Early Diagnosis of Tooth Decay

One of the primary reasons you should visit a dental professional is to avoid any dental issues such as gum problems and tooth decay. While this may seem minor initially, they can lead to more severe health problems down the road. However, addressing these early on will help to eliminate these before they even occur. Tooth decay and other reasons include

Check Under Your Gums with X-rays

If you’ve ever visited the dentist, you have received an x-ray on your mouth. These xrays allow dentists to see what is happening below the surface of your teeth and gums and gives them a better idea of how to care for you. Without x-rays, some cavities could go undetected and get to the point of needing a root canal treatment or even extraction. In addition, things like oral cancer may only be detected through x-ray technology.

Head, Neck, and Lymph Node Check

Along with checking your teeth, gums and tongue for signs of oral cancer, your dentist will also check the rest of your head and neck for abnormalities that could be related to a major health issue. The goal of these head and neck exams is to catch any signs of oral cancer early on to provide the best chance of eliminating it. Early detection can make a huge difference in treatment. Your dentist will be able to walk you through referring you to other medical professionals however necessary.

So in light of National Dentist’s Day, make sure you make an appointment to see yours today! A dental professional can do so much more for your dental and overall health provides so many services and benefits that you cannot get from