Brushing Up on Basics: The Importance of Routine Dental Care
Many people are aware that good oral hygiene practices and routine dental care are vital for preserving the health of your smile. However, they may not be aware that a person’s dental health can also have a significant impact on their overall health and well-being.
In addition to brushing and flossing your teeth, you should also make a habit of scheduling routine dental appointments every six months. These appointments allow your dentist to identify issues that you might not be able to see with the naked eye and address them before they worsen. Some of the benefits that come with these visits include:
Early Detection of Oral Issues
By visiting your dentist regularly, you can have an expert examine your mouth for signs of tooth decay and other issues. Whether it’s a small cavity or the early stages of gum disease, these conditions are much easier to treat if they are caught early. For example, a small cavity that is left untreated can quickly deteriorate into a severe cavity and require a root canal or extraction.
Additionally, if a patient is showing early symptoms of gum disease, their dentist can help them reverse the condition and reduce their risk of developing periodontitis. This is especially important for patients who have been diagnosed with systemic diseases like diabetes and heart disease, since it can help lower their risk of complications.
During a routine exam, a dentist can screen for potential issues like oral cancer, which is a serious but curable disease when it’s diagnosed and treated early. In fact, research has shown that the condition of a person’s mouth can indicate their risk for certain health problems like diabetes and heart disease.
Finally, a visit to a can also provide helpful advice on proper oral hygiene techniques for different situations and needs. For example, if a patient has issues with chronic bad breath (halitosis), a dentist can offer advice and recommendations for products that will help improve the problem.
Other Health Benefits
In addition to detecting and treating oral health issues, routine dental visits can help spot issues that might impact your general health. For example, studies have shown that an unhealthy mouth can lead to higher levels of C reactive protein (CRP), which is a marker for inflammation in the blood vessels. This can put a person at a greater risk for heart disease and stroke.
In addition, your dentist can spot possible issues with a patient’s jaw and cheek bones by palpating them, which can be an indicator of diseases such as Sjogren’s syndrome or Parkinson’s disease. This is why it’s so important to visit your dentist in Torrance, California regularly. This is one of the best ways to protect your oral and overall health. By making routine dental care a priority, you can ensure a lifetime of healthy smiles.