Why Regular Dental Checkups Are Important

Not everyone looks forward to a dental checkup, but it is one of the most important appointments to keep. The purpose of regular dental exams is to prevent severe problems from developing due to inattention. Dentists can identify and diagnose many oral health issues with a preventive approach and provide appropriate treatment options. 

On the surface, regular dental exams and cleanings may not seem essential. However, failing to visit your dentist could pose unnecessary risks. Regular dental checkups are vital for your gums and teeth health and may save you money and time in the long run. Below are the most notable benefits of regular dental exams.

Prevent Plaque, Tartar, Cavities, and Decay

Even if you are the most fastidious individual, you can still fail to clean hard-to-reach places in your mouth. For example, the back molars are notoriously tricky to clean. During a routine dental checkup, your dentist will examine your teeth to look for early signs of decay. 

If the dentist spots white spots or small cavities on your teeth, he/she will start you on fluoride treatment to reverse the problem and use dental fillings to treat larger holes. Next, you will undergo professional teeth cleaning to eliminate dental plaque or tartar. That will protect your gums and teeth from harmful bacteria.

Prevent Gum Disease

In most cases, gum disease has no symptoms in the early stages, making it difficult to detect. Fortunately, dentists can spot the most subtle signs of gum disease during a routine examination. 

They typically check for receding gums, swelling, and deep gum pockets and treat the underlying cause if they find any worrying symptoms. Usually, improving your oral hygiene habits will make the problem go away. Your dentist will guide you on how to care for your gums to reverse the situation. 

Check for Oral Cancer

Besides examining the gum and teeth, dentists look for signs of oral cancer during routine dental checkups. That is great since oral cancer can become a life-threatening illness if undetected. Dentists typically use a special light to look for dead oral tissue that may signal tumors. People who undergo regular checkups have reduced chances of developing late-stage oral cancer.

Detect Systemic Health Issues

Another crucial component of a routine dental checkup is the neck and head exam. Your dentist will check your neck, jaw, and lymph nodes for deformities, lumps, swelling, and other signs of illness.

If they find a problem, your dentist will refer you to the appropriate medical professional. That is why you should look forward to your regular dental appointments. You get a thyroid exam for the price of a dental checkup. 

Keep Teeth Looking Great

There are cosmetic benefits to regular dental checkups. Your dentist will perform routine cleaning during your appointment to remove plaque and tartar, reducing the risk of teeth stains. Routine checkups also allow dentists to make cosmetic treatment recommendations and educate patients on improving their smiles. 

Conclusion

Regular dental checkups will help you stay on top of your dental health. If you undergo regular examinations, your teeth are more likely to be strong and healthy. Consequently, they will serve you well for the rest of your life. 

For more on dental exams, visit Cal Oaks Dental at our Murrieta, California office. Call (951) 501-4900 to schedule an appointment today.