Importance of Regular Dental Checkups

One part of a dental exam is checking the teeth for any signs of decay. Your dentist or hygienist will evaluate the health of your teeth and gums, and may perform a neck and head exam, as well as check your mouth for any signs of diabetes, oral cancer, or vitamin deficiencies. They may also examine your bite, face, lower-jaw movement, and saliva. Overall, a dental checkup should include a careful examination of your teeth, gums, and spaces between your teeth. It should also include an examination of your throat, tongue, face, neck, and head for other dental-related conditions.

On the surface, dental cleanings and exams may not seem all that important. But avoiding regular dental checkups can lead to other preventable problems. Early diagnosis and treatment of dental issues is always worthwhile. But why, you may ask?

Deposits of plaque can be difficult to remove. When plaque turns to tartar, it is even more difficult to remove without help from a dental hygienist or dentist. Regular dental checkups can help prevent the development of tartar, plaque, and even cavities. Regular dental checkups can catch problems early when they are much easier – and usually less expensive – to fix. Even the most careful person can find it difficult to clean the hard-to-reach places in their mouth. For example, back molars are extremely hard to clean. Completing your cleaning with a licensed dental hygienist at least every six months will help you keep those difficult areas clean, as well as identify any other areas of concern.

The early stages of gum disease aren’t always obvious. This can make it difficult to know when you have a dental problem. Fortunately, a skilled and experienced dentist can spot signs of gum disease early and recommend the best treatment for you.

In addition to checking your gums and teeth during a dental checkup, a good dentist will also check for any signs of oral cancer. Left undetected, oral cancer can threaten your life. Regular dental checkups can lower your chances of suffering from late-stage oral cancer. To learn more about the importance of regular dental checkups, contact Jonny Fisher DDS at our office in Pullman, Washington. You can call (509) 383-8300 today to schedule an appointment.