18 Mar Do I Really Need to Get Dental Checkups Every Six Months?
What can possibly happen to teeth if I fail to keep my six month checkup, and don’t see the dentist or hygienist for a whole year?
- Plaque build-up – You don’t really notice it at first because it starts at the gum line. But all of a sudden you can start to feel that little ridge of calculus that is starting to form. That is bacteria piling up on your teeth that can progress into dental decay or gum disease.
- Yellowing – At each visit when you get your teeth professionally cleaned, plaque is removed along with the build-up of grime that has allowed your teeth to take on a dull appearance. Once the teeth are cleaned, they will be polished to look their best.
- Decay – Small caries too little to detect at one appointment can grow to a full blown cavity if not checked on a regular basis. This can translate to a huge filling, or worse.
- Gum disease – Your dentist or hygienist will perform a periodontal charting to make sure the pocket depths between teeth and gum tissue are not reaching a serious depth, which could result in gum disease.
- Malocclusion – Regular visits with your dentist will monitor any changes in the dental bite. An over bite, under bite or cross bite can cause grinding and clenching, dental decay, TMJ, or concerns about the appearance of your teeth.
- Tooth loss – Potentially serious problems are monitored, and needed corrections can be initiated to prevent costly and time consuming treatment.
Many patients mistakenly believe they can substitute their dental visits for their own personal daily hygiene regimen, but this is not the case. However, adopting a few simple daily habits will help keep teeth and gum tissue at its best between dental visits:
- Floss daily – This is critical for optimum gum tissue health.
- Brush daily – At least twice per day with a tooth paste or gel.
- Rinse – Use fluoridated or anti-bacterial rinses as recommended by your dental provider.
Lifestyle habits such as tobacco use, alcohol consumption, sugary snacks/beverages, insufficient sleep, and stress can impact your dental health.
Follow your dentist’s recommendations, keep dental appointments, and enjoy a lifetime of smiles. If it is time for your six-month checkup, contact our team at The Dental Place today. Call 972-264-5795 to schedule your visit.