It can be difficult to schedule your biannual dental visits when life gets busy. However, dental check-ups are necessary if you want a clean and healthy smile. It’s important to understand that your visit with Parkcrest Dental in Springfield, MO, is so much more than just a teeth cleaning. Read on to learn all the details about why you need regular dental visits.
Teeth Cleanings
Brushing your teeth twice a day isn’t enough. When you visit your local dentist, you’re making sure your teeth are getting the cleaning they need! Dentists use specialized tools and mirrors to make sure they’re cleaning every little detail in your mouth, even the difficult places you may sometimes miss. Dentists are able to remove hardened plaque and tartar that is stuck to your gums and teeth. Doing this twice a year keeps your teeth the cleanest they can be.
Keeping Bad Habits in Check
While you may not even be aware of them, there are several bad habits you may have taken up that can cause damage to your oral health. Some of these include nail biting, chewing ice, grinding your teeth, clenching your jaw, or having a poor diet. When you visit the dental office, your dentist will let you know about these bad habits and the damage they’re doing to your oral health. Being informed about these habits will help you decide what lifestyle choices you need to make to improve your oral health.
Finding Problems Under the Surface
A typical visit to the dentist may include some x-rays of your teeth and jaw. These x-rays help identify any problems that you or your dentist may not be able to readily see. These problems may include wisdom teeth coming in, impacted teeth, bone decay, cysts, and many others. These x-rays are critical to stop hidden problems before they become serious.
Head, Neck and Lymph Node Checks
In addition to checking your mouth, gums and tongue, your dentist will also check your neck, jaw, and lymph nodes (located just below your jawline) for any swelling or abnormalities. While swelling in these areas may not seem like a big deal, these may be symptoms for particular signs of cancer or other diseases that need to be treated immediately. It should only take your dentist a minute or two to check for these symptoms.
Keeping Track of Progress
Visiting your dentist twice a year ensures that your dentist can track your oral health as the year progresses. Your dentist will be able to view your past dental x-rays and records to watch for patterns and problems in your teeth. The dental team will keep a careful eye on your teeth so they can treat any potential problems as they come up.
Schedule Your Next Check-Up With Parkcrest Dental
Scheduling a dental appointment is just as serious as scheduling a doctor’s appointment. Great oral health is easy with Parkcrest Dental Group, the superior dentist team in Springfield, MO. Whether you’re a returning patient or a brand new face, we’re happy to check your smile and keep it healthy. Contact us today to make an appointment!
