What is the Importance of Regular Dental Check-Ups?
When was the last time you went for a dental check-up? Even though we all know and understand the importance of regular dental check-ups, most people rarely get them done unless they have an immediate dental issue that needs attention.
This leads to oral issues such as tooth decay and gum diseases that can develop into serious problems that may need expensive and invasive dental treatments. There are 1 in 3 Australian adults over 15 with untreated tooth decay and the same number of children between the ages of 5 and 6 that have tooth decay in baby teeth. This alarming number emphasises the importance of regular dental check-ups and proper oral care to protect and maintain your teeth and gums.
If you’ve been delaying your dental check-up because of any reason, give our blog a read to understand the importance of regular oral check-ups and the various benefits they provide, not only to your oral health but also your overall physical and mental well-being.
Importance of Regular Dental Check ups
Dental check-ups are recommended every 6 months to keep your teeth healthy. If you’re thinking that’s overkill and you can probably save on those costs and time by visiting the dentist only when you need to, then think again. Missing out on routine dental check-ups can help prevent dental problems by detecting and treating them at an early stage. This can save you from extensive dental procedures and the pain that comes with teeth problems.
Going for regular dental check-ups can:
Helps Avoid Serious Dental Issues
Dental check-ups detect teeth problems before they progress and worsen. For example, a cavity just beginning to form may only need cleaning and filling. Whereas, a badly decayed tooth might need a root canal or extraction. Getting such problems treated early not only saves you from the pain and discomfort of a toothache and medications but also expensive treatments to treat the issue.
Thorough Cleaning of the Teeth
Another benefit of dental check ups includes regular professional cleaning to keep the bacteria in your mouth lower. There are about 700 types of bacteria that can live in your mouth. The bacteria thrives and grows with the consumption of sugars and poor oral hygiene . Since the most serious dental problems are tooth decay and the overgrowth of bad bacteria, professional deep cleaning is essential to reset the number of bacteria in your mouth and reduce it.
Dental Care at Home
Routine visits to your dentist also help educate you about the correct home oral care routine. Dentists recommend brushing your teeth twice a day for at least 2 minutes and following it with flossing to ensure a thorough clean.
At Whitehorse Dental, we are dedicated to teaching our patients , both young and old, to take care of their teeth at home. This includes using the correct products, such as high-strength fluoride toothpaste, a toothbrush with softer bristles and interdental brushes for in between the teeth. What most people don’t know is that hard bristles can cause tooth abrasion and gum recession that can weaken tooth enamel and expose the tooth to the risk of infection.
Knowing how to care for your teeth properly helps prevent the overgrowth of bad bacteria that is the main cause of gum disease and dental decay. We also recommend cleaning between your teeth once a day using floss or interdental brushes.
Saves Money in the Long Run
We strive to teach our patients to take care of their teeth at home. This has a major impact on the dental disease experience because it minimises the risk of developing dental diseases and problems with a preventive approach aimed at long-term oral care, saving you money from future dental procedures.
How Often Should I See My Dentist for Check Ups?
While you may be able to take care of your teeth at home, there will still be areas where you can’t reach. Stains behind your teeth or ridges between your molars and the back of your jaw are difficult to clean and more prone to plaque buildup and bacteria. Your dentist has the tools and expertise to clean your teeth from every angle, reaching areas you can’t access.
Another important point to note is that usually on the internet, in media or in advertisements, dental check-ups are recommended every 6 months. This is a broad frequency which may not apply to everyone. In reality, it depends on each individual’s needs. High-risk patients may need to visit the dentist 4 times a year because they have a higher risk of gum diseases or other oral issues that can develop into bigger problems.
While others we recommend only to come once a year as they have a lower risk of getting dental diseases. You’ll never know what category you fall in unless you visit the dentist. Our goal is to graduate high-risk patients to become low-risk patients with personalised care and treatments. This includes not only procedures but also tips on how to take care of your oral health outside the dentist’s office.
Have you scheduled your Dental Check up at Whitehorse Dental?
Regular dental check-ups with a proper home oral care routine are the first line of defence against dental diseases. They play a vital role in maintaining dental health, protecting your teeth and gums from decay and diseases while allowing you to smile with confidence.
Our Blackburn dentists care about you and your family’s oral health. We aim to protect you from dental problems with early diagnosis and preventive care, educating and creating awareness for lasting oral health and timely treatment of dental issues. Stay on top of your dental check-ups by booking an appointment at Whitehorse Dental today.
