Important Facts that Dentists Share

Dentists are not health professionals that often greet happy patients. The reality is that many people do not enjoy visiting the tooth doctor at all. It is however a necessary part of health and well-being that matters a lot. Here we look at some significant facts related to visiting your dental professional.

Both regular check ups and cleanings are essential. In fact they are two of the most pertinent factors when it comes to your oral health. Having regular check ups will help to prevent many dental problems from getting started. This includes cavities, gum disease, oral cancer and the need for root canals. Cleanings will keep your teeth looking and feeling your best. Do not wait until you have developed a problem to see your dentist.

Did you know that every time you have a check up and cleaning your dentists and the dental hygienist are screening you for any warning signs (or early signs) of oral cancer? They are. This is beneficial for you to be aware of. Oral cancer is a very serious form of dental disease that can be deadly if it is not detected right away. This disease affects the mouth and lips and in some cases, the throat. If caught and treated in its early stages it is often curable. The two most important ways that you can prevent oral cancer is to get regular check ups and to stay away from tobacco in any form.

Periodontal disease is the medical name for gum disease. Studies from dentists have proven that gum disease can play an integral role in your overall state of health. It is one of the main reasons that adults lose their teeth. It has also been associated with strokes and cardiovascular disease. In its earliest stage gum disease is known as gingivitis. At this point in time if diagnosed it can be treated and the condition reversed. However if left untreated and allowed to worsen over time it will become more serious and reach a more advanced stage. At this stage it is referred to as periodontitis. Bone loss could potentially occur once it has become this serious.

The best ways to prevent the onset of gum disease is to brush your teeth at least twice a day (and preferably after every meal), to floss once a day and to schedule an appointment with your dentists every six months (or more if necessary) to keep your teeth and gums in tip top shape.

Brushing your teeth at least twice a day with toothpaste removes plaque from your teeth that builds up them when you eat and drink. If left in place to cling to your teeth plaque can cause cavities. Plaque is a sticky and soft substance that develops when it comes into contact with the debris from food as well as bacteria. Getting rid of plaque before it has the opportunity to harden on your teeth will also go a long way in preventing gum disease. Besides brushing your teeth, flossing is very important because it gets rid of the food particles and plaque that are caught between teeth and in spots that a toothbrush is unable to reach.