The hidden benefits of regular dental check ups

Looking after your teeth is essential to your overall health and wellbeing. From preventing bad breath to spotting oral cancer, a visit to your dentist may well offer more benefits than you bargained for.

Here, we take a closer look at how going to the dentist can improve your oral health, or even save your life.

Your dentist can spot potential problems

Your teeth may not have any problem areas, but unless you visit a dentist, you may not even know. Going every six months or so can help you nip a potential problem in the bud before it becomes costly or painful.

One of the most common oral problems is gum disease, which arises when tartar build up causes an infection where the gum is connected to the tooth. This infection is called gingivitis, which if untreated can progress into periodontitis, which can lead to the loss of teeth.

You get a complete oral health check

It’s not just your teeth that your dentist checks. They will also look at your gums, tongue and surrounding tissues, potentially identifying problems like gum disease or even mouth cancer.

Oral cancer is extremely serious and can manifest in different ways. Without going to the dentist and having an oral examination, you can potentially miss signs of its early onset. Thankfully, with an early diagnosis, it is easily treatable.

Prevent bad breath and tooth staining

When plaque builds up around your gum line it can cause bad breath. The only way to remove hardened plaque is through a scale and polish, which can also remove stubborn stains.

Check old fillings and restorations

Old fillings can sometimes come loose or chip, which can let bacteria in underneath. This can cause significant problems and even lead to tooth loss. Having them checked every few months can fix any small issues and help to save the integrity of your teeth.

Check for cavities

Not all cavities cause symptoms, so you may be unaware that you have them. Cavities that don’t get treated can lead to bigger problems and tooth loss, so it’s important to get checked out regularly.

Finding problems under the surface

Part of your dentist’s appointment will be getting your teeth and jaw x-rayed. This will help spot any underlying issues that cannot be seen with the naked eye. This can spot things like impacted wisdom teeth, or extra teeth, that need to be removed.

Head, neck and lymph node checks

In addition to checking your teeth and jaw, your dentist will also check your neck for any abnormal lumps and bumps. Swollen lymph nodes do not necessarily mean that there is a serious underlying medical condition at play, but getting them checked out is prudent.

In summary, going to the dentist encompasses more than a quick once over. It helps look after your teeth, your overall health and potentially your life. To book in for a check-up, please call our friendly team of experts on: 01666 503403, or email: info@belgravehousedental.co.uk.