Few things are as important to your overall health and well-being as maintaining good oral health. And yet, many people neglect their teeth and gums, only visiting the dentist when they have a problem. But did you know there are many reasons to visit your local Rochester dentist regularly? Here are just a few.
1. To Prevent Gum Disease
Did you know that about 46% of adults aged 30 or over have some form of gum disease? Gum disease is an infection of the gums that can lead to tooth loss, and it’s also been linked to other serious health problems like heart disease and stroke. But the good news is that gum disease is preventable, and one of the best ways to do so is by visiting your dentist regularly.
Since, in most cases, gum disease is caused by plaque buildup, your dentist will be able to clean your teeth and remove any accumulated plaque. This simple procedure can help you avoid gum disease and keep your smile healthy. For those who already have gum disease, regular dental visits can help control the condition and prevent it from getting worse.
2. To Check if Your Teeth Are Healthy
Your teeth are strong, but they’re not indestructible. Over time, they can become worn down by acids in your food and drinks, by grinding or clenching your teeth, and even by using them to open bottles or chew on hard objects. That’s why it’s important to have your teeth checked regularly by a dentist, who will look for signs of wear and tear and can make recommendations on how to protect your teeth.
In addition, your dentist will also check for cavities. While cavities are often painless in the early stages, they can eventually lead to tooth decay and even tooth loss if they’re not treated. By visiting your dentist regularly, you can catch cavities early and avoid more serious problems later on.
3. To Check if You Need Orthodontic Treatment
Did you know that 25-50% of kids and teens need orthodontic treatment? Orthodontic treatment is used to straighten teeth and correct bite problems, and it can be done at any age. However, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have an orthodontic evaluation by age seven.
The reason for this is that some problems, like crowding, are easier to correct if they’re caught early. In addition, orthodontic treatment can be less expensive and time-consuming if it’s done while a child is still growing. So, if you think your child may need orthodontic treatment, be sure to schedule an appointment with your dentist.
4. To Check for Oral Cancer
Oral cancer is a serious disease that can be deadly, but the good news is that it’s also highly treatable if caught early. That’s why it’s so important to visit your dentist regularly, as they will be able to check for signs of oral cancer during your routine cleaning and exam.
While oral cancer can occur in anyone, there are certain risk factors that increase your chances of developing the disease. These include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and a family history of oral cancer. If you have any of these risk factors, it’s even more important to visit your dentist regularly so they can keep an eye out for any signs of cancer. Of course, even if you don’t have any of the risk factors for oral cancer, it’s still a good idea to visit your dentist regularly. After all, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
5. To Check if You Need a Dental Filling
If you have a cavity, your dentist will likely recommend a dental filling. This is a common procedure in which the dentist removes the decay from your tooth and then fills the empty space with a material like composite resin. Dental fillings are safe and effective and can help prevent further damage to your teeth.
And if you are one of the 120 million people in the United States with missing teeth, you may be considering dental implants. This is a procedure in which artificial teeth are placed in the jawbone to replace missing teeth. Dental implants can give you back your smile and improve your oral health.
As you can see, there are many good reasons to visit your local Rochester dentist. Whether you need a routine cleaning or a more complex procedure like dental implants, your dentist can help you achieve and maintain good oral health. So be sure to schedule an appointment today.
