When you look at your teeth and gums in the mirror, you may believe that they are healthy; however, if you are not visiting your family dentist in Virginia Beach regularly, they may not be. In addition to brushing and flossing at home, the American Dental Association recommends that you have a cleaning and checkup twice a year to promote your oral health. Unfortunately, one-third of adults did not schedule an appointment last year. If you are among those who skip routine dental appointments, you are placing your oral and general health at risk.
Why Do I Need a Cleaning?
Even with the best brushing and flossing methods, there are still areas in your mouth that you cannot clean at home. As a result, plaque, tartar, and bacteria will accumulate in these areas, like around the gum line and in between your teeth. The only way to remove them is with a proper cleaning from your dentist.
If you skip the cleaning, you are opening the door to tooth decay and gum disease. Although you may think that your teeth and gums are healthy, it is estimated that one in four adults currently have an untreated cavity, while 50% of Americans have a form of gum disease.
Why Do I Need a Checkup?
All too often, it is believed that you do not need to see your dentist in Virginia Beach until after an issue has developed, but this is not true. Regular care allows your dentist to monitor your oral health to detect areas of concern sooner, like tooth decay and gum disease.
With quick intervention, it prevents the issue from worsening, reducing your risk for an unexpected dental emergency. Your dentist will quickly find a tooth that has become weakened or has a cavity to prevent it from breaking or becoming infected.
In addition, it helps to lower your long-term dental costs by preventing the need for a costly or invasive procedure in the future. In fact, it is estimated that every $1 spent on preventive care can save you $8 to $50 on restorative treatments.
By monitoring your oral health, your dentist will create a customized treatment plan to help you reach and maintain a healthy smile. Not only can they offer additional preventive services like fluoride treatments and dental sealants, but they can also predict future complications, such as tooth loss from untreated gum disease. With a comprehensive treatment plan that caters to your specific needs, you can help to ensure that your smile will last for a lifetime.
Visit Your Dentist Today!
If it has been more than six months since your last dental visit, do not wait any longer. Schedule a cleaning and checkup today!
About Stephanie L. Santos
Dr. Stephanie L. Santos strives to deliver comfortable dental care using advanced services. With a focus on prevention, she helps her patients achieve optimal oral health through routine services. If you need a cleaning and checkup, contact Smile by Design today to schedule your appointment.