Even if you brush twice a day and floss daily, for the health of your gums, you must visit a dentist on a regular basis. The goal of regular dental visits is to help maintain good oral health and to prevent problems from becoming serious by identifying and treating them as soon as possible. The first step is scheduling an appointment at Washington Court House Dental. We can assist you with dental care to improve your overall health through a routine dental check-up.

 

How Often Should You Visit the Dentist? 

Regular dental visits are a vital part of maintaining and protecting oral health. Going to the dentist every six months is ideal for maintaining good oral health, but if you have a higher risk of dental disease and other health conditions, you may need to see the dentist every three months or more.  

 

What Can You Expect During a Visit to the Dentist 

Knowing what to expect can help you better prepare for your dental visit. A regular appointment typically takes 30-45 minutes, so plan enough time off from work or school to feel less rushed or anxious about getting back. Here’s what you can expect for the long-term benefits of regular dental visits:

  • A thorough professional cleaning: During your dental visit, a dental hygienist will professionally clean your teeth using special tools like an ultrasonic scraper and high-powered toothbrush to remove any plaque (a sticky film of bacteria and food) and tartar (a hardened form of plaque) buildup on the teeth surfaces and along your gum line. The hygienist will then polish and floss your teeth and rinse your mouth to remove any remaining debris. This type of preventative care helps dental professionals prevent oral health problems from progressing.   
  • A full examination: Once your teeth have been cleaned, Dr. Pappas will perform a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and mouth, looking for signs of disease or other problems. The dentist will then discuss your oral health and provide treatment options to address any issues found during the exam.  
  • X-rays: Depending on your age, risks of disease, and symptoms, Dr. Pappas may recommend X-rays. X-rays provide a clearer picture of what’s beneath your gums and can help diagnose problems that are just starting or hard to see. This includes damage to jawbones, impacted teeth, abscesses, cysts or tumors, and decay between the teeth.  

 

What Do Regular Dental Visits Prevent? 

There are several benefits of maintaining regular dental visits, including: 

 

  • Remove plaque and tartar buildup: Regular dental visits can help keep plaque and tartar from building up around your teeth. 
  • Prevents gum disease: Periodontal disease (gum disease) is one of the most widespread chronic diseases among adults in the US. Plaque and tartar are the primary causes of gum disease – it contains bacteria that irritate and inflames your gums, breaking down the bone and connective tissue that holds teeth in place, eventually resulting in tooth loss. Luckily, gingivitis (early-stage gum disease) can be reversed early. Even periodontitis (advanced gum disease) can be kept from getting worse in nearly all cases with regular professional cleanings and exams. 
  • Prevent bad breath: Halitosis is caused by gum disease, cavities, dry mouth, and the bacteria in plaque and tartar. Regular checkups allow your dentist to detect and stop these problems before they become more serious.  
  • Prevent cavities: Tooth decay (cavities) is caused when the acid in plaque slowly erodes the tooth enamel and forms holes. Regular dental visits help prevent plaque or tartar buildup, preventing tooth decay. Additionally, cavities often start small and gradually become bigger when left untreated. Because many cavities don’t cause pain in the early stages, it can be hard to realize that a problem exists. That’s why regular dental appointments are important – during your appointment, your dentist can detect tooth decay early when it’s easily treatable. 
  • Prevent tooth loss: Gum disease and tooth decay are the leading causes of tooth loss. Regular dental visits allow your dentists to prevent plaque and tartar buildup and check for any signs of gum disease and cavities.  

 

Schedule Your Dental Appointment Today! 

Visiting the dentist is a preventative measure that improves your oral health issues and saves you time, discomfort, and even money in the long run. If you live in Washington Court House, OH, and schedule one of your regular dental check-ups, please don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions!