It is widely assumed that you should see a dentist twice a year. This is an excellent rule of thumb to remember when in doubt. However, if you want to know how frequently you should get a dental checkup, you need to evaluate your mouth’s cleanliness, habits, and overall health.
In general, it is better to have a checkup every 6 months than to wait an entire year. This is because dental problems can develop gradually. You may not even notice a problem until it is too late. A dental checkup can help you to detect and treat problems before they become too advanced.
Here are the key benefits of having a dental checkup every six months:
1. Reduce the Chance of Cavities
Teeth, gums, and deeper tissues can be evaluated in the dentist’s chair. The dentist can identify early signs of cavities and other problems which can save you time and money.
Your dentist can also notice that you are not taking care of your teeth. He will initiate a discussion about your oral hygiene and can recommend changes to your daily routine.
2. You Will Get Earlier Treatment for Gum Diseases
To have the best chance of early treatment, you must acquire an early diagnosis. Dentists are typically able to detect slight gum irregularities. All cavities and other early signs of disease can be spotted by regular dental exams.
If you have trouble with a tooth, your dentist can often treat the problem immediately with a small filling or other treatment. A small situation can quickly escalate into a significant issue that requires root canals and even extractions.
3. Check for Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding can occur when you are asleep. The dentist is the best person to detect this problem. Once your dentist knows that you have teeth-grinding, he can advise you on managing the situation.
You may need to wear a nightguard if you tend to grind your teeth. Some people grind their teeth when they are stressed or anxious. If you grind your teeth often, your dentist can recommend counseling.
4. Check for Signs of Oral Cancer
During checkups, you will get a chance to evaluate the health of your mouth. Once you are in the dentist’s chair, you may be able to detect or rule out any medical problems. Specifically, any signs of oral cancer. This is very important because treatment for oral cancer is much better if it is detected in its early stages.
6. Eliminate Bad Mouth Odor
The odor from your mouth is usually caused by halitosis. Most people tend to believe that halitosis is a minor issue that they can treat with a breath mint. This is a mistake. Halitosis is usually caused by gum disease or other problems which can be much more serious. That’s why having a regular dental checkup is so vital.
Conclusion
Routine dental checkups are an essential part of a healthy mouth. If you are not getting a dental exam every six months, you may not be getting the best form of oral healthcare.
Your dentist can detect cavities, gum problems, and many other problems. He can also advise you on how to avoid these problems before they get out of hand.
Are you looking for a dentist who can assist you in having healthier teeth? Galleria Dental of Alexandria is here to aid you. We are the best dentist in Alexandria, VA, that serves patients of all ages. We provide excellent quality dental care while employing cutting-edge dental technology. Book an appointment today!