We’ve all heard that you should visit the dentist every six months, but is it really that important? Simply put, yes.
One of the most compelling reasons for paying a visit to your dentist regularly is prevention. Poor dental hygiene can lead to gum disease and tooth decay and loss, and can have negative effects on overall health.
According to the Center for Disease Control, nearly 50% of adults in the US. are affected by gum disease. Over time, untreated gum disease causes the gum to separate from the teeth, forming a bacteria-filled pocket that becomes infected. As the disease progresses, the pockets become deeper and the treatments become more extensive, more expensive, and more time-consuming. Periodontal disease is the number one cause of adult tooth loss in the US. Ignoring it could allow the disease to deteriorate the bone and gums so badly, teeth will need to be extracted.
Keep your Teeth and Gums Healthy
Home dental care, as well as regular dental check-ups, can help to keep teeth and gums healthy and prevent early tooth loss. The first step to good oral health is brushing and flossing at home. Doing so gets rid of lingering food particles, combats bacteria that causes bad breath, and helps to prevent buildup of plaque. While it’s generally difficult to get a deep cleaning at home, a dentist has the tools to get to those hard to reach places and remove any tartar that has built up. We check for cavities and can keep an eye on any reoccurring trouble areas you may have.
Besides cleanings every six months, be sure to take care of your teeth and gums between regular dental visits. Plaque is always forming on your teeth, but you can manage it by brushing and flossing regularly.
Here are some tips for good oral care at home:
· Brush your teeth at least twice a day. Be sure to use a toothpaste that contains fluoride.
· Floss daily.
· Use a mouthwash to help control plaque bacteria. This will also help to keep your breath fresh.
· Eat a healthy diet, and quit the use of tobacco products, if applicable.
· Avoid chewing ice and hard candies and never use your teeth as a substitute for the right tool.
· Reduce consumption of sugary foods and beverages from your diet, and chew sugar-free gum that contains xylitol.
At Columbia Pike Family Dentistry, our goal is to help our patients understand the importance of regular visits for their overall health. In addition to home care, you should have a regular dental visit at least twice a year, or as recommended by your dental professional. Most dental health problems appear gradually, and an appointment every six months is enough to catch these problems before they become serious.
Visit Columbia Pike Family Dentistry to Maintain a Healthy Smile
A healthy smile is a valuable asset in everyday life but requires proper care, including to help prevent gum disease. At Columbia Pike Family Dentistry, we want to help keep you healthy and happy, and that starts with regular dental visits. We take measures to protect both your health and your wallet, by detecting or preventing potential problems. Contact us today at 571-312-4111 to make an appointment for a check-up and cleaning, or for all of your other dental needs.
Are You a New Patient?
Take advantage of our new patient offer for only $159. It includes a comprehensive exam, x-rays, and a healthy mouth cleaning. The offer is for new patients only and may not be combined with any other offer, discount, insurance, or reduced-fee program. Be sure to mention this offer to receive the discount. Book your first visit here.