One of the most common bits of dental advice is to visit the dentist in Rickmansworth every six months, but what is the real value of these trips to the dental chair? At Berry Lane Dental, our dentist in Rickmansworth would like you to know that we do more than just treat the pain and discomfort arising from your dental problem. In fact, modern dentistry focuses more on the prevention of dental disease.
Just as it is with your general health, a proactive attitude to tackle health issues in their early stages before they escalate is best in order to avoid the pain and discomfort (and invariably expense) that often accompanies medical issues. Identifying red flags that point to a growing dental issue is perhaps one of the most important reasons why a visit to the dentist in Rickmansworth is necessary.
The value behind dental check-ups
Like with most people, the only time dental health comes to mind is when there is a problem – a tooth infection, sensitivity to hot and cold foods and toothache. Dental pain can make it practically impossible to continue with daily activities.
Pain can nip eating in the bud, raising the risk of inadequate nutrition, but it can also make speech uncomfortable along with cognitive functions such as focus and concentration. This is why when you have a toothache, productivity at work or school can be such a challenge.
Routine dental check-ups keep a close eye on teeth and gum health. This level of professional attention keeps teeth and gums in good health so that they can continue to serve your well-being life-long.
Many dentists see the benefits of preventive dentistry as a significant component in dental health maintenance. Preventive dentistry is beneficial to patients in other ways too. When compared to complex dental issues like periodontitis or tooth infection, minor concerns like plaque and cavities are easier and quicker to treat. Treating cavities may require a single visit to the dental chair whereas treating gum disease is more of a long-term treatment plan that, more often than not, requires numerous trips to the dentist.
A routine check-up or professional dental cleaning procedure is far preferable to invasive treatment techniques like root canal therapy or dental extractions. A routine dental check-up also costs far less than an invasive procedure would.
The health benefits of visiting the dentist
In addition to the benefits of avoiding pain and discomfort and saving money and time, there are health benefits associated with regular dental visits. What many patients don’t know is that disease-causing bacteria found in the mouth can affect the rest of the body too, in particular, the cardiovascular and respiratory systems.
That’s right, the bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease can raise the risk of heart and lung illnesses when they reach these vital life-sustaining systems through the bloodstream. When dentists request dental check-ups, it is to monitor the effectiveness of your at-home oral hygiene efforts. Poor oral hygiene control is directly responsible for the overabundance of bad oral bacteria in the mouth.
Securing your dental health is fundamental for overall health and well-being, and this can only be managed by visiting a dentist regularly for teeth and gum inspections. Ensure you keep your natural teeth for life; take the first step by scheduling an appointment with us at Berry Lane Dental today.