You likely already know that prioritizing oral hygiene is important for overall wellness. The mouth is one of the dirtiest parts of the body. If mouth bacteria aren’t kept at bay, it can lead to infections (tooth decay and gum disease) that can spread throughout the body, increasing the risk of developing other conditions, like pneumonia, stroke, heart disease, or endocarditis.
While brushing and flossing at home are great ways to maintain oral hygiene, bi-annual visits to the dentist are the best way to ensure proper oral health.
You should brush your teeth at least twice a day, preferably with an electric toothbrush. However, even with consistent brushing, it’s easy to a) rush through the task (no one really enjoys brushing their teeth), and b) miss important areas in the mouth.
A professional dental cleaning will ensure you get a much deeper clean than is possible at home. Dental hygienists use professional equipment and specialized tools, combined with immense skill, to remove stubborn plaque and tartar, even from hard-to-reach places, preventing the build-up that can lead to cavities and inflammation.
An astounding 42% of American adults currently have gum disease, a rate which increases with age. Poor nutrition, smoking, certain prescription drugs, stress, and improper brushing can all contribute to gum disease. Thankfully, your dentist can help you identify early signs of gum disease (like inflammation and bleeding) and provide treatment solutions, such as Perio Protect™. In most cases, when caught early, gum disease is reversible.
You might not realize the vital role your dentist plays in catching oral cancer in its earliest stages. This type of cancer has a much higher level of success when it is caught early.
During your routine cleaning, your dentist will perform a head and neck assessment and examine for various pathologies, including thyroid conditions and oral cancer. These are a normal part of every examination and are to be conducted at every routine visit.
Similar to oral cancer screenings, fluoride treatments are an optional part of a routine dental visit. However, they are beneficial and well worth the added cost. The American Dental Association even recommends these treatments every three, six, or 12 months.
Although fluoride is naturally found in water, some communities don’t have enough fluoride in their drinking supply to provide any oral health benefits. Fluoride can help prevent cavities, fight against bacteria that can harm gums and teeth, and protect enamel (the outer protective layer of the tooth).
The adage “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” could easily be stated here. Regular dental checkups are great for discovering issues early on, greatly reducing the scope of the required corrective treatments. In other words, instead of letting a cavity get to the point where you need a root canal, which is an expensive and more invasive procedure, you could fix the issue with a small filling.
A well-documented and established medical history creates a clearer picture of your needs as a patient. Many dental emergencies can be avoided if your dentist already understands your lifestyle, family medical history, current conditions (like diabetes, which can impact oral health), and previous habits, like chewing on one side of your mouth or grinding your teeth, and can help you develop a personalized preventative care plan. Establishing a long-lasting relationship with your dentist now means you can enjoy better health later.
Have you missed a few cleanings? Get back on track at Kardynal Dental. We’re a family-owned dental practice in Shelby Township, MI, offering dental care for all ages, including routine cleanings, restorative work, and emergency services. Call (586) 701-6808 or complete our online form to schedule your first appointment, and visit our website to learn more about what to expect as a new patient.