A good cleaning regimen and routine visits to the dentist are critical to maintaining oral health. Regular check-ups with the dentist allows them to check for various issues such as cavities, orthodontic issues, gum disease, and much more.
Dr. Pranathi Reddy, oral surgeon, notes that dentists are also able to detect signs of other more dangerous conditions, such as oral cancer and diabetes. By working together with their dentist and hygienist, patients can ensure their optimum oral health and prevent a multitude of problems.
Keep reading for all of the ways in which good oral hygiene and dentist check-ups ensure healthy teeth, gums, and body.
Maintain Regular Check-Ups
Regular dental check-ups and cleanings help dentists to identify potential issues in their early stages such as cavities, gum disease, oral infections, and oral cancer. Early detection allows for quick intervention and treatment, stopping the problem from worsening and potentially leading to more extensive and expensive dental procedures.
Better Orthodontic Treatment
Regular dental visits also lead to the early detection of orthodontic issues in younger mouths, such as malocclusion (misalignment of teeth) or crowded teeth. Identifying these problems early allows for timely orthodontic treatment, such as braces or aligners, which can prevent more severe issues later in life and improve oral function and appearance.
Prevention of Decay, Cavities, and Gum Disease
Good oral hygiene practices such as brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash help to remove plaque and food particles that can lead to tooth decay and cavities. Maintaining a good teeth-cleaning habit reduces the risk of developing cavities and the need for fillings, root canals, or extractions.
Regular brushing and flossing also prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar, which are major contributors to gum disease. Gum disease, if left untreated, can lead to gum recession, bone loss, and eventually tooth loss.
Keeping up good oral hygiene and booking regular professional cleaning sessions with a dental hygienist as required ensures a healthy mouth with less risk of issues arising that need extensive treatment.
Links Between Oral Health and Overall Health
Maintaining good oral hygiene can also decrease the risks of other conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease, helping to maintain overall health. Sometimes, signs of diabetes can manifest through lesions in the gums, and those suffering from periodontal disease have a greater risk of heart problems and inflammation.
This makes maintaining a good oral hygiene regimen all the more important when it comes to overall health, as it can be an early indicator of something else occurring in the rest of the body.
Detection of Oral Cancers
Dentists are trained to recognize the early signs of oral cancer during routine check-ups. Regular dental visits increase the chances of early detection, enabling timely intervention and improving the prognosis. Detecting oral cancer in its early stages significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and recovery.
Oral Health Advice and Education
Dentists and dental hygienists provide education on proper oral hygiene techniques, including brushing, flossing, and maintaining a teeth-friendly diet. They can also provide guidance on quitting habits such as tobacco and alcohol, which contribute to oral health problems.
By maintaining good oral health practices and following professional advice, a wide range of dental issues can be prevented.
