The American Dental Association recommends seeing your dentist twice a year for routine checkups and cleanings. These appointments allow your oral health professional to monitor your oral health, thoroughly clean your teeth and gums, address problems in their early stages, and recommend better hygiene practices. Here’s a brief guide to a few issues your dentist will look for so you can appreciate the process a little more.
Oral Infections
The mouth is exactly the sort of dark, warm, damp place full of residual nutrients that bacteria love, and some of these microbes can be quite hazardous for your oral and overall health. During your checkup, your dentist will inspect your teeth for decay and your gums for signs of periodontal disease. Oral infections can usually be reversed if they are caught when they are still pre-cavity spots or in the gingivitis stage, but more advanced issues like periodontitis and severe cavities will require restorative work such as fillings, root canals, or gum disease treatments.
Oral Cancer
Oral cancer is a serious and potentially life-threatening health condition, and a patient who uses tobacco or drinks alcohol excessively may be at greater risk for this issue. Thankfully, detecting oral cancer early is the best way to make sure the problem can be treated successfully, and your dentist will be happy to refer you to an appropriate specialist if they find any concerning symptoms such as:
- Oral sores that will not heal
- Reddish, whitish, or especially thick patches of tissue in the mouth
- Growths within the mouth
- Loose teeth
- Difficulty swallowing
Teeth Grinding
Many people frequently grind their teeth without realizing it when they sleep, and this can wear away the enamel and lead to a host of oral health issues like cracks, chips, loose teeth, chronic pain, jaw issues, gum recession, and tooth loss. During your checkup, your dentist will inspect your teeth for signs of unusual erosion such as flat incisors or eyeteeth. If they find any problems, they will be able to fit you with a customized nightguard that offers superior protection.
Your dentist is your smile’s best friend, and regular dental checkups can prevent an entire host of serious issues. Scheduling your next checkup will be a positive step for your oral health.
About the Author
Dr. Robert Rosenbaum earned his dental degree at the Georgetown University School of Dentistry and refines his skills further with postgraduate coursework. He is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association and the California Dental Association. His office in Modesto offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. To schedule your next dental checkup, contact his office online or dial (209) 526-9132.