Are you doing everything possible to avoid many of the most common oral health conditions? There are various preventive measures you can take to shield your smile from damage, decay, and infection. However, if you want to avoid a dental emergency, learn why seeing your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings can help prevent these 3 oral health problems.
Dental Cavities
When plaque forms on your teeth and begins to eat away at the enamel, it causes a cavity. Even though some people are more prone to them than others, they are preventable if you see your dentist biannually for dental checkups and cleanings. Your dentist can pinpoint the early stages of decay and administer treatment before it causes further damage.
Gum Disease
When bacteria attack the gums – the area that protects your tooth roots and holds your teeth in place – bleeding and swelling are likely to occur. If allowed to progress, periodontitis – a more advanced form of gum disease – can develop, resulting in gum pockets, bone loss, and eventually loose and/or missing teeth.
Seeing your dentist every six months can lower the risk of this common oral health problem because they can perform a thorough check of your gum tissue and determine if recession is occurring or if an infection exists. By catching it early on, your dentist can perform a deep cleaning and potentially reverse your symptoms.
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Many people are unaware that they grind their teeth; that is, until they visit the dentist for a checkup or to discuss persistent jaw pain. The act of clenching and grinding your pearly whites while you’re asleep not only causes enamel erosion but also places excessive pressure on your jaw joints, which can lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. Without treatment, headaches can form, and dental damage can occur (i.e., cracked or chipped teeth).
This is why asking your dentist about a custom nightguard to minimize further harm and better protect your teeth and jaw is essential. With regular visits, your dental team will be more likely to recognize these signs much sooner and provide appropriate treatment.
Don’t fall victim to these common oral health conditions. Instead, maintain regular visits to your dentist’s office and better protect your smile.
About the Author
For 20+ years, Dr. Greg Riley has been providing reliable dental care at Juno Beach Smiles. By emphasizing the importance of preventive care, specifically, dental checkups and cleanings, he can change how people experience life with a healthier, happier, and more vibrant set of teeth and gums. If you want to take better care of your oral health, visit our website or call (561) 622-7243 to schedule an appointment.