You’ve probably always heard that brushing and flossing is the best ways to keep your mouth healthy. While that is true, there’s one other important aspect of oral health that is often overlooked. Professional prevention through regular dental visits is one of the cornerstones of dental health. Unfortunately, it’s often seen as something that’s “nice to do” instead of being incorporated into a bigger prevention strategy. But why is it so important? Continue reading to find out!
Preventing Progression
Many oral health issues, like tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer, can progress quickly if left untreated. By detecting these problems in their early stages, you can prevent them from worsening and causing irreversible damage to your teeth and gums.
For example, early signs of tooth decay, such as white spots on the enamel, can be addressed with a simple fluoride treatment. This remineralizes the teeth before they develop into cavities requiring more extensive procedures like fillings or root canals.
Similarly, detecting early-stage gum disease (gingivitis), allows for treatment with professional cleanings and improved oral hygiene practices. If allowed to continue, it turns into periodontitis, which can lead to tooth loss and other serious health complications.
Preserving Oral Function
Early detection of oral health issues can also help preserve your oral function and prevent discomfort or pain associated with dental problems. For example, finding signs of bruxism early can prevent damage to your teeth that would stop you from eating properly.
Additionally, fixing bite issues (the way teeth fit together), especially in children, reduces the likelihood of future dental problems. This will keep their teeth functioning, which can contribute to better digestion and overall wellness.
Preserving Overall Health
It’s not just digestion that can be affected by a lack of prevention in your mouth. Other conditions like heart disease, memory loss and Alzheimer’s, and oral cancer are all detrimental to your overall health.
As you can see, dental visits and preventive care are equally as important as at-home brushing and flossing. They enable prevention, preservation, and protection all at once, keeping your smile healthy and beautiful for life. So, don’t delay, schedule your next dentist visit today!
About the Practice
If you’re convinced about the power of prevention, visit Baldwin Family Dental to see one of their incredible and talented dentists. They use an array of advanced diagnostic tools and modern techniques to ensure your teeth and gums stay healthy for a lifetime. Call (850) 215-0128 to schedule an appointment or visit the website to explore other treatments they provide.