The Importance of Not Skipping Your Biannual Dental Check-up

Most of us know we should see the dentist twice a year for a checkup and cleaning -- but everyone does. In fact, one study found that only 41% of older adults in the United States with dental coverage visit the dentist regularly, and the percentage of those without insurance is likely higher.

Skipping dental visits can lead to painful and costly oral health issues, such as cavities, gum disease, and severe plaque buildup. Oftentimes these problems can be treated early on, but only if they’re caught at your six-month check-ups.

Prevention is the best cure

The dentists at Arya Dental recommend biannual check-ups for every patient. It’s our experience, and that of many others in the dental industry, that having two visits a year allows for early detection of any potential issues. Regular cleanings often prevent gingivitis, tooth decay, and even more serious issues like tooth loss.

Six-month visits also allow your dentist to discover hidden problems, such as cracks or infections in your teeth, and get ahead of them before they cause you pain and discomfort. For your convenience, at the end of each visit, we’ll set up your next six-month follow-up appointment.

X-rays can help spot problems

X-rays enable the dentist to spot potential issues, such as impacted wisdom teeth that are not readily visible. Regular X-rays also serve as a benchmark for your oral health. By looking back over your prior X-rays, your dentist can see if your teeth have moved due to aging or a shift in your bite. Then if there’s any action that’s needed, he can make recommendations to treat the problem before it becomes more serious and expensive. Missing out on the signs, however, can be a costly mistake.

Regular visits can be good for your body too

You may be surprised how much your teeth can tell you about your body. Subtle issues in your gums or teeth may point to problems elsewhere. In fact, gum disease and its associated inflammation has been linked to serious health issues, such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. There is also some early evidence that oral health may impact memory. The bottom line is that taking care of your mouth through regular dental check-ups may benefit your overall health.

Getting on a regular schedule of biannual check-ups sets you on the right path for a smile you can be proud to show off. To schedule your visit, call the Arya Dental office in Fullerton, California or book online.