Sometimes it may feel bothersome to attend your biannual dental appointments. The appointments take time out of your busy day, and what if you’re required to go back for additional appointments? More wasted time! Perhaps it’s the cost that keeps you away, dental procedures tend to be costly. Maybe it’s fear or anxiety that holds you back from dental appointments. Whatever the case may be, we can all come up with hundreds of reasons not to attend our regular dental appointments, but what are the reasons you should go? Your state college dentist talks about the importance of regular dental visits.
Periodontal and Oral Cancer Screenings
Your dentist will screen you for periodontal, or gum disease and oral cancer at every biannual cleaning and check up appointment. This is important because the earlier you catch these issues; the better your chances are for successful treatment. It’s estimated that approximately 9,500 deaths will occur this year from oral cancer. Survival rates for this type of cancer are high if it’s detected in its early stages.
Periodontal disease occurs when plaque builds up below your gum line causing your gum tissue to separate from your teeth. The early stages of gum disease, known as gingivitis can actually be managed successfully with a thorough cleaning and improved home care. More advanced stages of gum disease, known as periodontitis will require a deeper cleaning beneath the gum line. Seeing your dentist regularly may be able to prevent gum disease from happening in the first place.
Diagnosing Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is another dental issue that is best caught in the earliest stages. When plaque is not removed through daily brushing and flossing, it will eventually cause enamel erosion and tooth decay can occur. Tooth decay leads to cavities that your dentist will need to fill in order to rebuild and strengthen your tooth.
Tooth decay progresses quickly and this is why you should see your dentist regularly. He or she will check for tooth decay and cavities at every biannual check up. Cavities that are diagnosed in the early stages can be repaired with a less invasive filling. Tooth decay will not go away and it will progressively get worse and could lead to more extensive damage to your teeth.
Dr. Chris Devlin is your premiere dentist in State College, PA. He’s spent decades helping patients repair and restore their smiles, as well as maintain optimum oral health through regular preventative visits. He offers a wide range of services designed to meet all of your dental needs and he welcomes patients of all ages to his practice. Don’t neglect your dental care any longer! No matter how long it’s been we’re here to help you. Contact our office today to learn more about our services.