Going to the dentist is something we all know we should do, but the truth is that it often gets overlooked. Most of us only start to think about the seeing the dentist when something bad happens like a toothache or a broken tooth, but the problem with that is that we’re inviting a whole host of other dental problems. As the old saying goes, “prevention is the best cure” and going to the dentist for your regular cleanings is the best way to prevent common dental diseases like cavities, gingivitis and more.
Take gingivitis, for example. It’s the mildest form of gum disease and it affects almost everyone at some point in their lives. It’s generally characterized by red, sore gums that sometimes bleed when you brush your teeth. The symptoms are mild enough that most people are going to be calling up their dentist for an emergency visit, but that doesn’t mean that it’s not potentially damaging. If you’re making your regular visits to the dentist, he or she will be able to tell you where to need to improve to prevent further harm to your teeth and gums.
Furthermore, gingivitis is generally caused by a lapse in proper dental hygiene. When we don’t brush, floss and use a mouth rinse as often as we’re supposed to, we leave plaque deposits on our teeth. After a period of about 72 hours, that plaque hardens and turns into tartar that can only be removed by a dentist. Plaque and tartar buildup produces acid that weakens our teeth and makes us more susceptible to tooth decay and cavities. Tartar also irritates the gums and can make gingivitis worse over time.
If it’s been six months or more since your last visit to the dentist, make an appointment as soon as possible to schedule a cleaning and an exam. Your dentist will use special instruments to remove plaque and tartar deposits, which will improve the health of your teeth and gums. Call us or contact us to schedule an appointment today.