General Dentistry in Nellysford, VA: The Importance of Regular Check-Ups

Have you been skipping dental visits? When was the last time you went in for a professional dental cleaning? If you're avoiding the dentist, skipping dental check-ups could put more than your oral health at risk.

A small amount of plaque could compromise your overall health over time. Instead of skipping appointments, consider general dentistry in Nellysford, VA. 

Not convinced that it's time for a visit? Read on to discover the importance of visiting your dentist for regular check-ups today.

Tooth Decay Prevention

Failing to visit your dentist will give bacteria, saliva, and food particles the chance to mix. Plaque, the tacky substance that clings onto and between your teeth, will form. If you fail to brush and floss plaque away, it can harden into tartar.

You'll need to schedule a professional dental cleaning to have tartar removed. Otherwise, tartar can release acid, leading to cavities and oral diseases.

Oral diseases are largely preventable yet still pose a major health burden for many countries. They can cause pain, discomfort, disfigurement, and even death if you delay treatment. Over 3.5 billion people worldwide are struggling with oral diseases.

The most common health condition in the world is untreated tooth decay in permanent teeth. About two billion people worldwide suffer from dental caries.

Regular dental check-ups can help you avoid tooth decay before it develops. Look for a dentist who prioritizes preventative care. They can help you discover how to maintain good oral health. 

During your check-ups, your dentist can recognize the early stages of tooth decay. They'll ensure you receive immediate treatment. 

Beginning treatment before the problem progresses can help you avoid irreparable damage. You'll also avoid more expensive and extensive dental procedures. 

Avoid Gingivitis

Routine dental visits can help you avoid gum disease. Remember, plaque can build if you're not brushing and flossing properly. Bacteria will continue to spread within your mouth, including under the gum line. 

You could develop a bacterial infection. The mild variety, gingivitis, will only affect your gums. If you delay treatment, the infection will travel under the gum line and into the bone (periodontitis).

Both forms of gum disease can increase your risk of diabetes, pneumonia, cancer, heart disease, and osteoporosis. Visiting your Nellysford dentist will ensure they detect the problem early. 

Symptoms of gum disease can include:

• Gums that separate from the tooth
• Bad breath that doesn't go away
• Sensitive teeth
• Wiggly or shifting teeth
  
  

If you don't visit your dentist every six months, you may not recognize the signs of gum disease. The disease could progress, leading to complications. 

Your dentist will recommend different treatment options based on how much the disease has progressed. When it's caught in its earlier stages, a professional dental cleaning can remove plaque and tartar. Your dentist may recommend a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) if plaque has developed under your gums.

If the problem has progressed, you may need flap surgery, bone grafts, or guided tissue regeneration. Visiting your dentist can help you avoid these surgical options. 

Regular Cancer Screenings

Early detection is the key to surviving oral cancer. Oral cancer can affect your lips, tongue, gums, cheeks, and palates. Your dentist is usually the first person to recognize the signs of oral cancer. 

Dental visits twice a year will allow your dentist to assess the health of your mouth. They can recognize the early signs and ensure you receive treatment. Symptoms include:

• Tongue pain
• Jaw pain or stiffness
• A sore throat
• Pain when swallowing
• Loose teeth
• Bleeding from the mouth
• A sore that won't heal
• A lump in the neck
• Dramatic weight loss
  
  

Let your Nellysford dentist know if you experience these symptoms. Some symptoms can indicate another condition. 

Your dentist can schedule X-rays, a CT scan, a PET scan, or an endoscopy. They'll look for tumors, growths, or lesions before scheduling a tissue biopsy.

Fresh Breath

Bad breath could scare off business contacts or a date. If you're struggling to get rid of your bad breath, talk to your dentist. They may determine you have an excess of plaque buildup.

Remember, plaque and bacteria can lead to gum disease, which could cause your bad breath. Your bad breath won't go away on its own.

Routine dental visits will allow your dentist to recognize what's causing your bad breath. They can recommend changes to your routine before it gets worse. 

Professional Tools

Sometimes, brushing twice a day and flossing daily isn't enough to ensure good oral health. Your dentist's professional tools can remove plaque and tartar when your toothbrush can't.

Relying on your dentist's professional tools can ensure more thorough dental cleanings. They can also recommend tools and brands you can start using at home.

Their recommendations will allow you to maintain good oral health. 

Teeth Whitening Treatment

Visiting your Nellysford dentist will give you the chance to discuss your concerns with a professional. Your dentist can recommend professional treatments that align with your needs and goals. 

For example, perhaps you're unhappy with your dull, discolored teeth. Your dentist may recommend a professional teeth whitening treatment. 

Whitening your teeth can remove bacteria, improving your overall oral hygiene. Whiter teeth can also boost your self-confidence, benefiting your quality of life.

If you have specific concerns, consult your dentist after your routine dental cleaning. They'll help you develop a customized treatment plan. 

Maintain Good Oral Health

Visiting your dentist can help you recognize minor mistakes you're making before they have a major effect on your oral health. Many people overestimate how long they should brush their teeth. To remove as much plaque as possible, three to four minutes is best.

Perhaps you're using the wrong brushing technique or brushing too hard. Brushing too hard can damage your gums.

Your dentist will recognize the mistakes you're making. They'll help you make improvements, ensuring better oral hygiene between visits. 

Choose General Dentistry in Nellysford, VA

Skipping routine dental visits can cause your oral health to suffer. Instead, rely on general dentistry in Nellysford, VA. Your dentist can help you maintain good oral health for years to come. 

Eager to schedule your next dental cleaning? Visit us at Nellysford Dentist. 

We're committed to providing high-quality dentistry while collaborating with patients to design customized treatment plans. Contact us today to schedule your next dental visit.