The Importance of Regular Dental Checkups
According to the American Dental Association (ADA) people of all ages should see their dentist for a professional cleaning and examination every 6 months. Dental checkups are important for your oral health, and for your overall well-being.
Why Have Check-ups Twice a Year?
Cleanings and check-ups at regular intervals, can help keep tooth decay on the run. Plaque forms in a predictable pattern, so even if you are most diligent about brushing and flossing, plaque can develop in hard-to-reach places. Once plaque turns into tartar, it can only be removed with tools available to dental professionals.
Professional cleaning removes the bacteria that causes plaque to form. Plaque begins to form within 24 to 48 hours after a dental cleaning, so even with the best oral care at home, plaque build-up is unavoidable.
Regular Teeth Cleaning Has Other Benefits
- Professionally cleaned teeth improve your appearance.
- If you have bad breath (halitosis), in most cases routine cleaning can help with chronic bad breath. Keeping your teeth free from tartar buildup will also help you prevent bad breath, which puts a damper on your social life.
Plaque Isn’t the Only Reason to See Dr. Evanson Twice a Year
- Digital X-Rays Discover Issues Not Visible to the Naked Eye
During a routine examination, Dr. Angela S. Evanson, DDS will x-ray your teeth and jaw bone. Cysts, tumors or swelling in the jawbone, along with bone decay can be detected only through x-rays. As with any condition, detecting problems in the early stages is critical in order to properly treat them. Destructive diseases, such as oral cancer, can progress quickly before showing any symptoms. Up-to-date x-rays and twice-a-year checkups are the best way to manage your oral care.
- Other Dental Issues Are Simple if Caught Early
During your examination, Dr. Evanson will also check for broken fillings, dental cavities and gum disease. These conditions are easy to diagnose and treat if caught early, which is another reason to go to the dentist twice a year. Early detection helps to avoid the need for a tooth extraction, root canal, or gum surgery.
- Gum Disease
Plaque and the accumulation of tartar cause tooth decay which causes the gum to pull away from the tooth (gingivitis). You will likely experience soreness, swelling and bleeding in your mouth. Gum disease not only attacks the gums it causes deterioration of the bone that holds your teeth in place. Without treatment, your teeth begin working loose or fall out, requiring extensive treatments.
75 percent of Americans have some form of gum disease, but early diagnosis can reverse the condition. If left untreated, gum disease can cause your teeth to fall out.
- Oral Cancer Examination
Oral cancer is easily treatable if diagnosed early, but if left unnoticed, it can quickly become life threatening. Dr. Evanson is skilled in recognizing the signs and symptoms of oral cancer and with regular dental checkups, she can detect changes in your mouth from prior examinations.
She will also check your neck, jaw, and lymph nodes, for any lumps, swelling, or other irregularities. Regular dental appointments allow Dr. Evanson to catch problems in the early stages where treatment can be effective before it progresses into a serious condition.
Make Your Appointment Today
Dr. Evanson adheres to the ADA’s recommendation of having your teeth cleaned twice per year. Preventative dentistry will keep your smile healthy and beautiful for years to come. To schedule an appointment, please contact us online or call us at (720) 409-0008.
Our office is located at 17167 E. Cedar Gulch Parkway #202 in Parker, Colorado, and is conveniently accessible to the communities of Highlands Ranch, Aurora, Castle Rock and Lone Tree.
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