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4 Reasons Why You Should Visit the Dentist Frequently

Dr Alex Silman • Aug 17, 2022
woman visiting a dentist

Often, individuals only think of going to the dentist if they are experiencing oral problems or for cosmetic purposes. While dentists help with toothaches and can whiten your teeth, there are numerous other reasons why you should visit the dentist frequently. 


Visiting the dentist regularly not only enhances the appearance of your smile but also improves your overall health. In addition, regular dental visits can detect various oral health problems before they become severe oral diseases. 


How often you should visit the dentist depends on several factors. For example, if you have a medical condition such as a weak immune response, diabetes, or are pregnant, you are more susceptible to dental issues. These conditions mean your dentist may recommend scheduling dental checkups more frequently. 


What Happens During a Dental Checkup? 


Chances are you have heard that brushing your teeth at least twice a day and regular flossing are critical to maintaining good oral hygiene, but what happens when you sometimes skip brushing and flossing and do not go to the dentist for your twice-a-year regular visits.? It may seem harmless, but it can lead to serious oral health issues when you forget to schedule or show up for your dental checkup. 


During your dentist appointment, your dentist or a dental hygienist will review your family history, ask about your dental care and any other relevant medical conditions, then give you an oral exam. Your dentist checks your gums, cheeks, tongue, cheek lining, lips, and the top and bottom of the roof of your mouth in addition to the cleaning. 


While many people have anxiety about going to the dentist, it is important to remember that preventive care aids in keeping your teeth healthy and helps prevent dental disease. Additionally, good oral health and regular dental care make for a healthy mouth and person.


The Top Four Reasons Why You Should See the Dentist Regularly


Reason #1: Help Prevent Cavities and Tooth Decay


Visiting the dentist regularly helps prevent cavities. In addition, limiting the amount of soda, caffeine, alcohol, and even some fruit can help improve your dental health. These foods destroy the enamel on your teeth, causing cavities and tooth decay.


Cavities happen when there is excessive plaque buildup. Plaque is a bacteria usually resulting from not brushing correctly or eating sugary or acidic foods. This buildup begins to deteriorate the enamel on your teeth, creating a small hole in the tooth. 


When you stay up-to-date on your dental appointments, your dentist can catch these cavities early, preventing further damage to your tooth and excessive dental work. However, they can cause serious dental issues without the proper treatment. If you avoid going to the dentist, they can quickly turn into a tooth abscess or kill the tooth pulp, requiring a dentist to remove the tooth altogether. 


Reason #2: Help Prevent Gum Disease


When you visit the dentist frequently, you are less likely to develop gum disease. People who experience gum disease generally do not notice any problems, making it nearly impossible to diagnose on your own. However, when you go to the dentist for your dental checkup, they will search for the early signs of gum disease and can create a treatment plan before it escalates. 


During your visit, your dentist will remove any buildup of dental plaque. Removing this plaque is essential because it can harden and become tartar. Once the tartar develops, it can deteriorate your gum tissue, causing swelling, bleeding, or tenderness. 


When it reaches this advanced stage, your dentist may recommend oral surgery or medication as a treatment. However, if you wait too long to seek professional help, your teeth may become loose or fall out. 


Reason #3: Preventative Screening for Serious Issues 


Dental checkups allow dentists to detect oral health problems before they require dental procedures or become life-threatening. However, your dental health has more of an effect on your overall health than you may think. 


During your regularly scheduled visits, your dentist will look for abnormalities in your neck, throat, jaw, and head. Examining these areas can help identify any tumors, cysts, or other serious diseases that can impact your health. 


Dental checkups also include an oral cancer screening. Oral cancer typically occurs in the throat or oral cavity and can be deadly without an early diagnosis. When you see the dentist frequently, you have a greater chance of catching these issues early, increasing your odds of a full recovery. 


Reason # 4: Identify Bad Oral Habits 


Even if you are low risk and practice good oral hygiene, you should go to the dentist regularly. Visiting the dentist twice a year allows you to ask questions about your oral health and analyze any bad habits you may have. 


There are other factors besides not properly flossing or brushing that could be damaging to your oral health. For example, biting your nails, chewing on hard foods, drinking coffee, or smoking affect your teeth. 


Dental check-ups are an excellent time to ask for your dentist's advice or share any concerns you may have about your oral health. 


Contact Dr. Silman Smiles Spa Today


Dr. Silman Smiles Spa is your trusted dental professional in the Manalapan, NJ, area. Schedule your next appointment today, or give us a call to discuss any dental problems or concerns. Our team will review your dental insurance and dental benefits and create a treatment plan that works for you. 


The team at Dr. Silman Smiles Spa offers various services to keep your unique smile healthy and bright. We use the latest dental tools and best practices for all dentist appointments to provide exceptional results. When it comes to your dental health, our dentists love going above and beyond to provide a comfortable experience and high-quality care. 


For more information on why you should visit the dentist frequently or schedule your dental checkups, contact Dr. Silman Smiles Spa today.



The team at Dr. Silman Smiles Spa are your reliable dental professionals in the Manalapan, NJ, area. Contact us at (732) 577-1515 to book your next visit. 


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