As soon as we start growing baby teeth, we begin to visit the dentist on a regular basis. But as adults, we might wonder whether we need to see the dentist often. It can feel tempting to skip routine appointments to free up time in our busy schedules.
But your dentist provides crucial cleaning and diagnostic services during these regular visits to their office. You should continue visiting your dentist or you might put your oral health at risk. Read on to learn more about the importance of seeking routine preventative dental care from your dentist in Clarkston, MI.
What Happens During a Dental Check-Up?
When you visit your dentist for a regular check-up, they will begin by thoroughly cleaning your teeth. They scrape away plaque and tartar build-up, especially in spots your toothbrush has trouble reaching, like near the gumline. If it remains on your teeth, plaque can eat away at your dental structure or heighten your risk of oral infections.
Your dentist will also examine your teeth and gums during these appointments. They will look for signs of cavities, gum disease, and other dental concerns. Then they can offer swift treatment before these problems can cause significant or irreversible damage to your smile.
Skipping these appointments might raise the chances of suffering a costly or painful dental emergency. Continue scheduling these dental check-ups as directed by your dentist.
When Should I Schedule a Routine Dentist Appointment?
The average dental patient will ideally visit their dentist every six months for a routine appointment. This establishes the perfect window where dentists can remove plaque before it harms the teeth and diagnose dental issues before they cause lasting damage.
However, some patients may need to see their dentist on a more frequent basis. Senior-aged patients, those with a higher propensity for plaque formation, and people with underlying medical issues might require check-ups three or four times a year. Consult with your dentist to find a preventative dental care plan that will suit your unique smile’s needs.
What Do I Do During a Dental Emergency?
Even with effective preventative dentistry and at-home care, an accident could occur that leaves you with a dental emergency. Whether you lost a tooth, experienced extreme oral pain, or suffered tooth breakage, do not hesitate to call your dentist. You do not have to wait until your next regularly scheduled appointment to talk to your dentist about a problem.
If you delay the evaluation of a dental emergency, the problem may worsen, and you could suffer major permanent damage to your smile. Your dentist might ask you to attend an emergency appointment to diagnose and treat any issues.
The dentist can also offer advice over the phone when you call. They may tell you about immediate care you can administer to relieve discomfort. Handling this situation on your own could make the problem worse, so contact your dentist as soon as you can.