If it’s been a while since your last dental checkup, you’re not alone. Many patients bypass the opportunity to seek regular preventive care. Whether the reason is due to fear, a lack of monetary funds, or you simply “don’t have the time,” the unfortunate reality is that putting off these visits will only lead to more serious dental problems. Read on to discover what problems can develop should you choose to forgo treatment and why you won’t regret seeing your dentist on a regular basis.
Skipping an Appointment: Which Problems Can Develop?
If you believe that your smile is in optimal shape because your brush and floss regularly and experience no pain, you may be right. However, if you haven’t seen your dentist in the past six months, there may be underlying issues that are simply not visible to the naked eye nor produce obvious symptoms. When choosing to forgo these recommended six-month appointments, you are putting yourself at risk for developing one or more of the following problems:
- Tooth decay
- Cavities
- Gum disease
- Oral cancer
- Halitosis
- Tooth sensitivity
While these are only a few of the many issues that can develop over time, the truth is they can be remedied without complex and extensive treatment if caught early on. Hence, why seeking preventive care is essential.
How Regular Checkups and Cleanings Make a Difference
Your dentist understands that you have a busy schedule and trying to identify a time when you’re readily available may not always be easy. However, if you want to save yourself from an emergency dental visit later on as well as keep more money in your pocket, you’ll carve out the necessary time twice a year to seek regular care. Preventive checkups and cleanings are effective ways to minimize your risk for many of the most common oral health problems. Your diet, lifestyle habits, and at-home dental hygiene can make a difference in the state of your smile. But even if you’re doing everything “right” and eating healthy foods, regularly brushing and flossing, and not smoking or using your teeth as tools, problems can still develop.
It takes a qualified professional with an educated eye to thoroughly examine your smile and pinpoint any areas that are causes for concern. Digital X-rays allow your dentist to view the areas beneath the gum line and determine if early signs of decay, gum disease, or bite misalignment are occurring. A professional cleaning can remove hardened plaque and tartar from in-between your teeth and lower your risk of gum disease, which can be devastating if left untreated.
Choosing to be proactive about your oral health will only improve the look and functionality of your smile. With regular dental checkups and cleanings, you can save yourself the headache of costly treatments later on and instead, enjoy your natural teeth and healthy gums for many years to come.
About the Author
Has it been more than six months since your last dental visit? At Indianapolis Family Dentistry, Dr. Mark Farthing and Dr. Armin Tepner welcome you to a judgment-free zone. Offering a breadth of comprehensive, preventive services, they can perform regular dental checkups and cleanings as well as provide fluoride treatments, dental sealants, periodontal therapy, TMJ treatment, oral cancer screenings, children’s dentistry, and customized sportsguards for patients in need. If you want to be proactive about your smile, visit our website or call (317) 898-3384.