Many dental patients think it’s no big deal if they put off a checkup every now and then. Dentists hear patients saying, they don’t “need” to come because there’s nothing wrong. However, that’s exactly why you should be keeping up with your regular preventive dentistry exams – to make sure there’s nothing wrong. Before you decide another six months won’t hurt anything, read the following to learn more about issues you may contend with when you skip your dental visit.
1 – Increased Risk for Tooth Decay
Bacteria in the mouth are a natural component of our digestive system. They help our bodies break down the foods and drinks we consume. However, bacteria are living organisms, and like other live beings, the absorb nutrients and excrete waste. The byproduct of bacteria is a sticky, acidic biofilm called plaque. When plaque sits on teeth for as little as 12 hours, it begins to calcify. This hardened material is referred to as tartar or calculus, and it has to be removed by a dentist or hygienist. When not removed regularly, plaque and tartar weaken tooth enamel leading to an increased risk for tooth decay.
2 – More likely to Develop Gum Disease
Like tooth decay, plaque and tartar buildup can also damage the soft tissue. This leads to irritation, inflammation, and infection that indicates gum disease. The early stages of gum disease have few warning signs, but left untreated, the oral health condition can cause soft tissue recession, chronic bad breath, and even tooth loss.
3 – At Higher Risk for Oral Cancer
Oral cancer screenings are an important part of most dental checkups. Even if your dentist isn’t specifically looking for oral cancer, the advanced understanding dentists have of how healthy oral and facial structures should look, feel, and function means they are often the ones to first notice this deadly disease.
4 – More Likely to Lose One or More Teeth
Because patients who skip dental checkups don’t reach out to the dentist until the advanced stages of oral health issues, they are much more likely to lose teeth. The goal of preventive dentistry is to partner with patients to protect dental structures from advanced decay and damage that may be irreparable if left untreated.
5 – More Invasive Treatments Needed to Achieve a Healthy Smile
Most dental health issues are insidious – they worsen or spread without treatment. What’s more, the majority of oral health concerns have extremely mild systems in the early stages. That’s why regular preventive exams are so important. Without a regular professional assessment of oral health, patients are unlikely to seek treatment until the latest stages of dental damage when treatments are complex, invasive, and expensive.
Meet Dr. Nelson
Your Metairie dentist, James R. Nelson, DDS, and the entire Nelson Dental Care team promise to go above and beyond to make sure you look forward to visiting the dentist. Our friendly, gentle team works hard to ensure every patient is free from stress and pain throughout their dental visits. Don’t delay your dental care. Find a dentist who makes sure you look forward to your office visit. Contact Nelson Dental Care to schedule your dental checkup today. Whether it’s been six months or six years, Dr. Nelson and his team are here to help you achieve and maintain your healthiest smile.