Have you ever wondered why you need to go in and see your dentist every six months? It seems like a lot, just to get your teeth cleaned.After all, you are brushing and flossing like you are supposed to, so that should be enough, right?
Unfortunately, not in this case. It is incredibly important that you go in and see your dentist every six months. Not just for the health of your teeth, but also your gums and your overall health, too.
What Your Dentist is On the Lookout For
When you go in and see your dentist for an exam, your dentist is going far more than cleaning your teeth and gums. While that cleaning is important, the other exams your dentist performs may even be more important. First of all, they want to take x-rays. Some dentists do this every six months, while others do it annually. They want to compare those x-rays to make sure your mouth is looking great from all angles.
Second, they are looking around your mouth. Subtle changes to your mouth, like patches of a different color or textures, can signal oral cancer. The sooner this is caught, the more likely it can be treated successfully. Finally, they are also looking at the health of your gums. Gum disease is a harmful ailment that hurts more than just your mouth. It has been connected to things like diabetes and heart disease, and if treated as soon as it starts, is reversible.
Your dentist wants to get to know you, but that isn’t why they want you to come in and see them every six months. Let them know that you care about your oral health by making a bi-annual appointment to come in and see them.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please call us at (503) 765-7300 today.