Dental visits, including exams and cleanings, are an important part of your overall health. The American Dental Association recommends maintaining these appointments through the pandemic for good reason. Please keep in mind that your dentist office will use proper safety guidelines to keep you safe. This may include things like wearing more protective gear, cleaning and disinfecting more than usual, temperature checks, social distancing and face masks.
During exams, dentists perform x-rays to check for issues with the teeth, mouth and jaw. Problems can include tooth decay, impacted teeth, abscesses, cysts or tumors, bone damage within the jaw and injuries like broken roots. X-rays can find these problems early, possibly before symptoms are even present. Regular dental check-ups can be significant in detecting cancer early. Early detection is key, as it always means avoiding more serious problems and less costly treatment down the road.
At your cleaning appointment, professional tools are used to thoroughly cleanse beneath, above and within pockets of the gums to get rid of plaque. But what if you brush and floss every day? Although brushing and flossing is important, there are areas in your mouth that are difficult to clean yourself. Cleanings effectively remove plaque, which can become serious, and expensive, if left untreated.
The American Dental Association recommends that you visit your dentist at least once a year to get a professional teeth cleaning. If you have periodontal issues, your dentist may recommend teeth cleanings more often. So even if you have healthy teeth, cleanings should be an essential part of your oral care routine.
As with any preventive care, teeth cleanings will actually save money on future dental costs. Taking care of your teeth now, can help avoid costly procedures down the road. For example, professional teeth cleanings can help prevent cavities and stop tooth loss. Also, removing plaque and bacteria, your breath can instantly improve, especially if the cause is due to periodontal problems. Dental cleanings can also whiten your teeth by effectively removing stains.
Best of all, your Dental Select insured dental plan will cover your cleanings twice a year, meaning you won’t have to pay out of pocket. So what are you waiting for? Schedule your preventive care with your dentist, start protecting your oral health and put a halt to gum disease today.
