The Importance of Regular Dental Check-Ups and Cleans
Let’s face it, going to the dentist isn’t anyone’s favourite activity. But did you know that you could be doing yourself some real harm by skipping these appointments? Of course, regular dental visits help to maintain adequate oral health, but they also provide a whole range of other benefits, too. In this piece, we will discuss what happens during a dental check-up, the advantages of seeing a dentist regularly, and hopefully answer that all-important question, ‘how often should I get a dental check-up?
What Happens During a Routine Appointment?
There are several things that a dentist will do during your appointment to assess, support and improve your oral health. Here is a rundown of what to expect:
- Examination: First, your dentist will examine your mouth carefully with small instruments. They are looking for any potential concerns or abnormalities.
- X-Ray: Although they can look scary, X-rays play a vital role in your check-up as they can see far more than the naked eye. During this part of the appointment, your dentist is looking for issues between the teeth, or other hidden concerns such as an abscess.
- Teeth cleaning: How often should you get a dental clean? We recommend you have your teeth cleaned at every routine check-up. This helps to remove unwanted plaque and tartar that, left untreated, could be a cause for gum disease. Specialised tools are used that provide a far greater clean than we can do at home, and as well as maintaining their health, your teeth will look and feel fresh.
- Education: Another essential factor of routine appointments includes passing down what we know about oral care. As well as providing up-to-date knowledge regarding tooth brushing, flossing and care, you can also ask us questions regarding preferred toothpastes or suggested vitamins to support your oral health.
Advantages of Regular Dental Check-Ups and Cleans
Why are routine check-ups so important? Take a look below at just some of the reasons we give to our patients:
Maintains oral health
Regular visits enable your dentist to pick up any potential issues early on, before they become a bigger, more costly, and potentially more painful problem. Small concerns can often be treated quickly and effectively if caught in time.
Deeply cleans
Plaque and tartar will continue to build up in hard-to-reach areas, no matter how effectively you brush your teeth. Professional cleaning helps to remove this and keep your gums healthy.
Supports overall health
Other conditions, such as heart disease and diabetes, can show through your oral health. By visiting your dentist, they can highlight these early.
Boosts confidence
Who doesn’t want great breath and a shining smile? If your teeth and gums are cared for, you are more likely to feel confident in social situations and be happier with your appearance.
How You Can Improve Your Oral Health
Of course, as well as visiting the dentist, there are several ways to support your oral health at home. Here’s what you can do:
- Clean twice a day
- Floss regularly
- Use mouthwash
- Drink plenty of water
- Avoid overly sugary or acidic food and drink
- Consider adding vitamin D foods to your diet, such as almonds and leafy greens
Recommended Check-up Frequency
If you’re wondering how often should I get a dental checkup? Then, in most cases, we would recommend every 6 months. This can, however, alter depending on several factors, when the frequency would be advised on an individual basis. Those who may require more frequent visits are as follows:
- Children
- Those who smoke
- Individuals with diabetes
- Pregnant women
- Other health concerns
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it. The number of times you should visit the dentist will depend on a number of factors, including age and health status. Assuming that your oral health is good, you should visit around every six months to maintain your oral health and to give opportunities to spot any growing concerns.
You may be wondering how much is a dental check-up up, and whether you can afford to visit as regularly as you should. The cost of a dental visit can vary depending on your location, clinic and whether you choose to have optional extras added. Most practices also accept health funds, should you have health insurance. The cost to your oral health and happiness? To us here at Smile Society, it’s priceless.