Why is it that dental cleanings and checkups always seem to fall on your busiest days? It’s so easy to cancel and overlook these appointments when your mouth feels comfortable and isn’t hurting; however, your dentist in Glastonbury shares some reasons you should never miss your 6 month cleaning and checkup, and this may change your mind about preventive visits forever!
What Takes Place During My Cleaning and Checkup?
There are a few important things that take place during your cleaning and checkup appointments. First, your hygienist will take the time to clean your teeth and remove the excess plaque buildup that causes concerns like tooth decay and gum disease. Your hygienist is also a great resource for proper brushing and flossing techniques that will help you make the most of your home care routine.
Next, your dentist will screen you for a number of dental issues such as oral cancer, gum disease, tooth decay, and cavities. All of these concerns can best be managed by being proactive and treating them right away. And it will also save you money in the long run.
The Cost of Avoiding the Dentist
Avoiding your preventive appointments or ignoring recommended treatment can result in some bigger problems. For example, if your dentist detects tooth decay at your routine checkup, they will probably recommend a small filling to repair your tooth. If you ignore your tooth decay, it will progress and become larger and could even reach the nerve of your tooth.
If this happens, you will not only be experiencing pain, your tooth will now require a root canal and dental crown to restore it back to health. Root canals and crowns are much more invasive and costlier than the simple dental filling that would’ve repaired your tooth in the first place.
This is also what happens if you wait to go to the dentist until your teeth are hurting. At this point, it is likely that the damage has already been done.
The Oral Systemic Link
We have a better understanding now of how oral health and overall health truly are related. With studies showing how the bacteria that causes gum disease can contribute to other concerns such as diabetes and heart disease, there has never been a more important time to take care of your health.
Your routine visits to your Glastonbury family dentist are really your first line of defense against dental issues and a great way to protect overall health and well-being.
Call your dentist to schedule your next appointment today.
About the Author
Dr. Brad Heim and Dr. John Carroll combine their expertise to bring patients exceptional dental care in Glastonbury, CT. Preventive care is our focus, and you will find all the services you need at our practice to achieve and maintain optimum oral health.
If you would like to contact our dentists, they can be reached by calling 860-633-2031 or through their website.
