3 Reasons You Should See The Dentist More Regularly
Posted on: 28 February 2017
Between work, school, kids, and hobbies, it can be easy to forget about taking care of your teeth. The reality is you should see your dentist twice a year for regular cleanings and a checkup, but many Americans don't take their oral care seriously. The results can be devastating and lead to gum disease, tooth loss, or even a dangerous sinus infection. Just because your teeth look and feel healthy and you brush regularly doesn't mean you should put going to the dentist on your 'emergencies only' list. Here are 3 reasons you should see your general dentist on a regular basis.
Enamel loss
Tooth enamel is not living tissue, which means it won't regenerate itself once it is damaged. You may not even realize you are damaging your teeth by the foods you eat, the way you brush your teeth, or even your lack of flossing and your enamel can get weak over time. Weak enamel can lead to brittle teeth that can chip easier and be more prone to tooth decay, which makes you even more vulnerable to cavities and plaque buildup. Visiting your dentist regularly can help you recognize issues you may be having with your tooth enamel, and if your dentist is concerned they can place you on a health regimen to protect and strengthen the enamel you have.
Gum health
Gingivitis is a common gum disease that many adults have, and you may not even know it since the problem isn't always painful. Your gums can become dark purple or even black with time, can become swollen, and start to bleed when you brush. The problem with gum health is that once your gums start to get infected, they pull away from your teeth in response to the disease. Gum recession is difficult to reverse but can be prevented by getting regular cleanings. You want your gums to be healthy so they can hold your teeth in place and help prevent nerve damage in your teeth.
Education
New developments in oral health crop up all the time, but you likely wouldn't know it unless you visit your dentist a few times a year. Your dentist can keep you informed on new tooth cleaning technologies and can recommend new ways to keep your mouth healthy that can work for your specific dental needs. When you make an appointment with your dentist, write down the concerns you have about your teeth so you can have them addressed when you are sitting in the dental chair.
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