It is easy to skip your dental checkups and cleanings from time to time. You probably figure nothing is wrong if you can’t see it or feel it, and as long as you perform proper oral hygiene at home you’re fine. However, there are conditions that may be developing that you cannot see with the naked eye, and every dental condition does not cause pain. That is why your biannual checkups and cleanings are so important. Prevent future problems by attending your biannual checkups.
Prevention
Preventing dental problems from developing or preventing minor problems from becoming more serious can save you a lot of discomfort, inconvenience, and expense. Dental checkups are designed to keep you on track with proper dental hygiene, keep your teeth free from bacterial plaque and tartar, prevent periodontal disease, catch cavities before they develop, exam your oral tissues for oral cancers, and more. Your hygienist exams your teeth and mouth for these things by:
- Taking x-rays
- Poking and probing with special instruments to detect cavities early
- Removing tartar deposits to prevent gingivitis
- Providing a close and thorough examination of your tongue, cheeks, palette and other soft tissue
Oral Cancer and Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease: Periodontal disease is the major reason for tooth loss. It begins as gingivitis. The symptoms of gingivitis are red, swollen, sensitive, and bleeding gums due to irritation from bacterial plaque and tartar. Left untreated, it can lead to the deterioration of the jaw bone, followed by tooth loss. Your dental exams and cleanings can help prevent this condition.
Oral cancer: In the U.S. a person dies from oral cancer every hour. However, detected in its earliest stages, oral cancer has a cure rate of 80 to 90 percent.
ABOUT YOUR GARLAND, TX DENTIST:
Dr. Vi Mai-Truong and the caring staff at Mai Dentistry are dedicated to ensuring that our patients are proud of their beautiful, healthy smiles. With years of experience in general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry, we can expertly diagnose and treat early dental trouble to preserve your natural tooth structure. To learn more, or to schedule your next appointment, call our Garland, TX office today at (972) 530-0552.
