Top 3 Reasons To See Your Dentist Regularly

Most patients over age one should visit the dentist at least twice yearly for cleanings, exams, and other preventive care. However, some patients avoid routine care due to anxiety or the fear that it will cost more than they can afford.

Dental professionals encourage every patient to receive preventive care because it confers many benefits beyond the appearance of your smile. Here are the top three reasons to visit our Zachary, LA office regularly.

1. Improve Oral and Overall Health

Many patients are surprised to learn about oral and overall health links. Oral health problems can contribute to potentially severe health issues like stroke, diabetes, cardiovascular problems, and preterm birth. Gum disease and tooth decay can also lead to infections that cause illness if not treated promptly.

Oral cancer screenings are vital to overall health. When patients receive dental care regularly, their providers are much more likely to catch the early signs of oral cancer, which is most treatable at early stages.

2. Lower Lifetime Dental Costs

Frequent visits allow your dentist to catch problems at earlier stages when they are more accessible and less expensive to treat. Getting a filling in a small cavity is much more cost-effective than waiting until the decay becomes severe. You may lose the tooth and need a costly restoration like a bridge or implant.

3. Build Self-Confidence With a Beautiful Smile

Preventive dental care brightens your smile, polishing away surface stains and removing all traces of plaque and tartar. The confidence you gain from an attractive smile can impact many areas of your life, from your personal relationships to professional opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions About Preventive Dental Care

How often should I visit the dentist for routine care?

Most patients visit the dentist twice annually for routine care, such as cleanings, comprehensive exams, oral cancer screenings, fluoride, and sealants. Your dentist may adjust your schedule according to your personal needs.

Your dentist will likely request diagnostic X-rays once yearly to detect and track tooth decay. Digital X-rays are quick, safe, and effective.

Is a routine cleaning painful?

Teeth cleaning is a gentle procedure that should not feel painful. If you do feel discomfort during scaling, you likely have gum disease. The earliest stage of gum disease, gingivitis, is reversible given excellent home care and regular professional cleanings. If you feel concerned about a cleaning causing discomfort, talk to your dentist or hygienist about making the procedure go smoothly.

Call Fallin Family Dentistry

We encourage you to receive preventive dental care because we care deeply for your oral health. Even if you have not been to the dentist in some time, we will gladly meet you and create a treatment plan to protect your smile. To schedule an appointment in our Zachary, LA office, please call 225-654-2212 today.