We all hear how important brushing and flossing are to our oral health, but there’s another key factor too often overlooked: regular dental check-ups.
Experts recommend a dental visit at least twice yearly or every six months for professional dental cleanings and check-ups. But you may need to see your dentist more often if you have oral health issues. During a typical appointment, they will examine your teeth, jawbone, and gums for signs of decay or other problems. They will also remove plaque and tartar buildup that can cause gum disease and cavities.
Why Do You Need to Visit Your Dentist Regularly?
Below are why you need to see your dentist every six months.
1. Early Detection
Regular dental check-ups can help your dentist spot any signs of decay or other problems early on and treat them before they become more serious. This also allows them to advise you on appropriate preventive measures you can take at home to reduce your risk of dental problems in the future.
2. Professional Cleanings
At a regular check-up, your dentist will also provide professional cleaning services to remove plaque and tartar from areas you can’t reach with brushing and flossing at home. This helps keep your teeth healthy by preventing cavities and gum disease.
3. Treatment Planning
If you have existing oral health issues, regular check-ups allow your dentist to assess the situation and outline a treatment plan with you that best suits your needs.
4. Oral Cancer Screening
Many dentists will recommend oral cancer screening during dental check-ups. For those over 20, it is advised to have it every three years, while those over 40 should have it annually.
How to Choose a Reliable Family Dentist
Not all dentists are the same. When choosing a reliable family dentist to take care of your oral health, there are certain factors you should consider, including:
- Training, license, and experience. These are essential for providing the highest quality care in every profession. When selecting a dentist, ensure they are certified by an accredited dental academy. In Canada, International Dentist Advanced Placement Program (IDAPP) is necessary for a dentist to gain a license to practice dentistry. Also, it’s always best to opt for a dental clinic with staff with at least five years of experience in the industry, such as this Waterloo dental office.
- Reputation and reviews. It’s important to choose a family dentist with a good reputation in your community. Check online reviews to learn how others view their services.
- Location and convenience. Make sure the clinic is conveniently located near your home or workplace so you can easily access it when needed. For instance, a Waterloo dentist is what you need if you live in Waterloo, Ontario. In addition, ask about their availability or hours of operation before making your final decision.
- Affordability. Most dental clinics offer payment plans or financing options to help make treatment more affordable. Ask your dentist what type of payment plan they offer and how you can take advantage of it. But you have to note that the most expensive dental clinic may not be the best.
The Bottom Line
Regular dental check-ups are essential for good oral health and overall well-being. They allow your dentist to detect problems early and provide preventive measures to help you maintain good oral health and a healthy smile. When choosing a family dentist, consider the abovementioned factors to ensure you get the best service and treatment.
