Regular dental appointments are vital to securing the future health of your teeth and gums. Visiting for a checkup and cleaning every six months can prevent gingivitis, cavity formation, and other structural issues with your teeth. Just because you’ve had healthy teeth in the past, doesn’t mean you can forget about these appointments. The health of your gums and teeth can change over time, and certain lifestyle habits that you adopt may influence the status of your health. Make sure that you’re attending a checkup and cleaning for your teeth every six months.
Tooth Decay Is Progressive, So You Always Need to Follow Up
A fallacy that some patients adopt is that their healthy teeth will stay that way forever. Because the brushing and flossing you’re doing at home has kept your teeth healthy enough to this point, it will always be enough to prevent gum disease and cavities. Unfortunately, this is not necessarily the case. Tooth decay and gum disease are progressive conditions, which means they build up over time. The damage done by bacteria can aggregate and cause problems in the future, even though your teeth are fine for now. You need to continue to follow up with your dentist for regular check ins.
Cleanings and Checkups Can Reduce Your Risk for Problems
Cavities don’t just form overnight. Gum disease doesn’t come out of nowhere. These problems take time to develop. If you’re visiting your dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning — while also cleaning your teeth at home — it’s likely that these issues won’t have time to mature into full-blown conditions. During your dental appointment, you’ll receive a cleaning that removes plaque and calculus buildup from around your teeth and gums. This level of professional cleaning can allow your teeth to recover, halting the formation of cavities.
If You’re Having Problems, Start Tweaking Your Home Care Routine
Your dentist can help you keep your teeth clean, but you have to make an effort as well. If you’re noticing issues with cavities or inflamed gums, try tweaking your home care routine. Are you currently flossing? If not, then start. If you’re flossing once a week, try twice a week or three times. Be sure that you’re brushing twice daily, and consider adding an extra brushing session after your midday meal. Every individual’s care needs are different, so be sure you account for what works best for you.
Schedule a Checkup and Cleaning at Cedar Dental in Cedar Rapids, IA
Attending biannual dentist appointments can keep teeth clean and healthy throughout your lifetime. If you need to make an appointment for yourself or your family members, contact Cedar Dental. Our friendly staff make routine visits easy comfortable for patients of all ages. Schedule a checkup and cleaning at Cedar Dental in Cedar Rapids, IA by calling our office at 319-364-7108.
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