The American Dental Association recommends having a cleaning and checkup every 6 months to keep your mouth healthy. However, only 35% of adults see their dentist twice a year. Often, preventative appointments are viewed as a luxury, when in fact, they are a necessity to keep your teeth and gums healthy. If you’re not visiting your dentist regularly, here are just a few risks you face by skipping your semi-annual appointments.
Increased Risk of Cavities
Did you know that 92% of adults will experience tooth decay? Brushing can lessen your risk, but you can still experience enamel loss. Your dentist can perform various preventive services to strengthen your enamel to make it more resistant to cavities, like fluoride varnish or dental sealants. They can also detect areas of enamel loss and early stages of decay for quick intervention.
Increased Risk of Gum Disease
Cavities aren’t the only threat to your oral health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 50% of adults have a form of gum disease. The preventable infection is caused by bacteria found in plaque and tartar buildup from poor oral hygiene. Not only can it lead to tooth loss, but it can also increase your risk of several health issues, like Alzheimer’s, cardiovascular disease, and diabetic complications. Brushing and flossing are effective, but they can miss some areas in your mouth. Irregular dental cleanings can allow harmful plaque buildup that can infect your gums.
Poor Overall Wellness
Your oral and overall wellness are connected. Various dental problems can increase your risk of health issues. Your dentist can spot anything concerning early before it affects your health. In addition, your dentist can also detect certain health conditions that may affect your smile, like acid reflux.
Potential Undetected Oral Cancer
Over 54,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral cancer every year. It might surprise you to know that you don’t have to smoke to be at risk. Unfortunately, oral cancer has a high 5-year mortality rate due to late detection. Your dentist does more than check your teeth and gums. They also look for signs of oral cancer to detect anything concerning early.
Increased Risk of Dental Emergencies
1 in 6 Americans will experience a dental emergency annually. Not all are the aftermath of accidents or injuries. Many are the result of untreated dental issues. A small cavity can lead to a painful infected tooth with no treatment. Routine appointments allow your dentist to monitor your oral health to ensure there’s nothing concerning hidden in your mouth that can turn into a dental emergency.
You’ll avoid costly dental work and prevent tooth loss by committing to semi-annual dental cleanings and checkups.
About Dr. Donald Bond
Dr. Bond earned his dental degree from the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry and has continued his education annually to provide the most up-to-date services. He is affiliated with several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association and the Delaware State Dental Society. Request an appointment through his website or call his office at (302) 444-8985.