Your Biannual Dental Exams Are More Than a Cleaning — Here’s Why

The word “teeth cleaning” is often used in reference to your biannual dental exam. As much as we all love that fresh feeling of professionally-cleaned teeth, your appointment is about so much more than that.

In today’s blog post, let’s look at five reasons why your biannual dental exams are important.

1. Checking your dental health

Perhaps the most important reason for consistent dental exams is to check your oral health. During your exam, your dentist will look for any current or developing problems with your teeth, gums, tongue, and jaw. Beyond simply identifying an issue, it’s important to understand why. For example, you may know you have a cavity (or two), but knowing why helps prevent future cavities from developing. 

2. Ensuring that you have healthy gums

When you think of a dentist, you often think “teeth.” But your gums matter too! In fact, a person’s gum health tells you a lot about their oral health and even their overall health. If your dentist identifies a problem area or concern, like gum recession, there are usually numerous treatment options, ranging from lifestyle changes to surgery. 

3. Understanding the impact on your overall health

As mentioned above, no part of your health exists on its own. For instance, you know that your mental health is linked to your physical health and vice versa. Similarly, your oral health is directly connected to your overall health. If your dentist identifies a problem in your mouth, it may signify bigger issues in your body. 

As an example, recent research suggests a link between gum disease and serious health issues, including diabetes, cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, heart disease, and more. The earlier that you diagnose a problem, the easier it is to treat and manage. And one way to ensure early detection is with your biannual dental exam!

4. Investing in your health

It’s no secret that, in order to live your best life, you need to be as healthy as possible. Committing to your health is truly an investment — of time, energy, and money. When it comes to your oral health, undiagnosed problems often become more complicated and more expensive to treat. By visiting your dentist every six months, you can help to ensure that you catch potential issues at an early stage. Thus, your biannual dental exams are smart for both your health and your finances. 

5. Cleaning your teeth

Of course, getting your teeth professionally cleaned is a big part of your biannual dental exam! Not only will your teeth feel cleaner, but they’ll look cleaner too. The cleaning process removes any stubborn stains or plaque build-up. Better yet, if you stick with your appointments every six months, those things will never get out of control.

 

Call us at 407.834.0330 to schedule your appointment today! Check out our Dental Blog to learn more about topics like restorative dentistry, dental anxiety, and more.