1) Help Prevent Gum Disease & Tooth Loss
Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss. If diagnosed in its early stages (gingivitis), it can be treated.Waiting, however, can lead to a more advanced stage called periodontitis.
2) Screening for Oral Cancer
Oral cancer can be deadly. However, if diagnosed early, it is often very treatable. Regular dental check-ups include a screening for oral cancer.
3) Prevent Dental Emergencies
Many toothaches and dental emergencies can be easily avoided just by regular visits to the Dentist. Your Dentist can detect any early signs of problems with your teeth or gums. Early detection of cavities, broken fillings and gum disease are easily treatable. If these problems go untreated, root canals, gum surgery and removal of teeth could become the only treatment options available.
4) Help Maintain Good Overall Health
Gum disease has been linked to heart disease, strokes, and even cancer. Visiting your Dentist for regular check ups can help you to avoid gum disease, thus promoting better overall health.
5) Fresh Breath
Many things can cause bad breath and your Dentist can tell you if it is related to your dental health.
6) Clean Teeth and Healthy Gums
A dental cleaning can remove plaque and tartar that normal brushing and flossing can’t get rid of. Regular dental cleanings are therefore very important as plaque and tartar build-up is the primary cause of gum disease.
7) There are Solutions for Nervous Patients
Many dental offices offer options for patients who would otherwise be too nervous or anxious to go to the office. Extra-sensitive patients can be numbed for cleanings. Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) can relax patients during their appointments, yet be completely out of their systems minutes after. Drill- and needle-free dentistry is another option that is ideal for many situations.
8) Cost-Effective
It often costs much less to spend money on regular visits to the Dentist and and taking a proactive approach to your dental health, than it can by letting a problem worsen to the point that it becomes a dental crisis and requires lengthy and more involved and costly procedures.
9) Help Ensure Your Future Dental Health
Many proactive measure can be taken – especially with children – to help ensure their future dental health, like the application of sealants and fluoride. Early orthodontic treatment (functional orthodontics) can often prevent the need for wire braces later on by using less expensive appliances early on that harness a child’s natural growth.
10) Confidence
A healthy smile and fresh breath are confidence-builders which can in turn lead to success in all facets of daily living.
Steven Deskin is a Brantford Dentist in general practice.