Why You Shouldn’t Skip Your Biannual Dental Cleanings

Regular dental appointments are essential for maintaining your oral health, much like consuming enough vegetables is essential for your overall well-being. These appointments require planning and personal health commitment, but the benefits make the effort worthwhile. 

Prioritizing dental checkups can lead to early detection of potential issues and promote better long-term health outcomes. At Morris Dental Associates in Abilene, Texas, Dr. Amy Morris and her experienced team recommend that everyone follow American Dental Association guidelines for regular dental cleanings and checkups.

The timing of your visits depends on your specific situation. If you have gum disease, you may need more frequent cleanings, but most people need to come in at least twice a year.

Prioritizing your oral health

Maintaining an exemplary at-home oral hygiene routine is essential, and many individuals brush and floss with great diligence. However, despite these efforts, bacteria, plaque, and tartar can still accumulate on your teeth over time. Regular professional cleanings are crucial to effectively managing this buildup and reducing your risk of gum disease.

Prioritizing dental care in your schedule can yield significant benefits. Here are some key advantages of scheduling biannual dental cleanings:

Catch decay early

Regular dental cleanings significantly reduce your likelihood of developing cavities. The condition commonly known as a cavity is technically referred to as dental caries, and it affects a larger portion of the population than those who remain cavity-free. 

Cavities begin to form when the enamel on your tooth starts to soften. If detected in this initial stage, it’s possible to halt the decay process and prevent further damage to your tooth. Regular checkups are essential for early detection and intervention.

Save money

Regular dental visits play a crucial role in maintaining your oral health, as they can help prevent cavities from developing beyond the enamel stage. These checkups are also essential for addressing other oral health concerns before they escalate into more significant and costly issues. 

For instance, an unnoticed cavity that becomes infected might require extensive treatments such as a root canal or dental implants if your tooth can’t be salvaged. Therefore, staying proactive with your dental care can lead to better long-term outcomes and save on potential expenses.

Avoid gum disease

Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is a prevalent oral health condition affecting many individuals worldwide. It can lead to several symptoms, including bad breath, bleeding gums, and increased sensitivity. If left untreated, it poses a significant risk of tooth loss.

Interestingly, some individuals may not notice any symptoms until the disease has reached an advanced stage. To effectively prevent gum disease, regular dental checkups are crucial. During these appointments, we examine your gums and teeth for early signs of issues, allowing for timely intervention and treatment if needed.

Screen for oral cancer 

Each year, over 58,000 American adults receive a diagnosis of oral cancer. The positive aspect is that if detected and treated in its early stages, oral cancer is highly treatable. As part of your routine dental care, we offer screenings for oral cancer to help ensure early detection. 

Our skilled team provides comprehensive professional dental cleanings for children, teenagers, and adults. Maintain your oral health by scheduling an appointment with Morris Dental Associates today. You can contact us by calling our office or booking online.