In these pandemic times (and with the occasional dental jitters), it’s easy to consider skipping that dental appointment, especially when there are no immediate issues. But hold on! Neglecting those routine dental cleanings and exams could spell trouble for your smile and well-being.
It is because tooth decay and gum disease can lead to serious issues like abscesses and infections, potentially requiring root canals. In particular, gum disease has been connected to rheumatoid arthritis, pneumonia, and even Alzheimer’s disease. Meanwhile, bruxism often arises from stress, and an unhealthy smile leads to poor self-confidence. Your mouth and body are intricately connected and require regular care for optimal health.
Our dentist warns you against the dangers of ignoring your biannual dental appointments. Scroll down for valuable insights into routine cleaning and exams to protect your smile in the long run.
Bacterial Infection
The greatest oral issue stems from oral bacteria, which starts to form as soon as you eat or drink anything besides water. Brushing and flossing after you consume sugary and acidic foods and beverages – like sodas, juices, sports or energy drinks, tea, coffee, and alcohol – can help manage plaque formation and buildup. Still, very few people take the time to do that.
And even if you do, brushing and flossing alone can’t reach and clean every surface in your mouth. It is where your professional dental cleanings come to the rescue. With the help of special tools, our hygienist removes hardened, calcified plaque (tartar or calculus) that you can’t clear away at home, especially in between teeth and around the gum line.
Removing calculus and bacteria protects your smile from cavities and gingivitis (gum disease), so you don’t suffer from bacterial infections like gum disease, which puts you at greater risk of tooth loss, heart conditions, and complications from diabetes. Oral bacteria also makes your breath smell bad and is off-putting to people in close contact.
What Happens at Your Biannual Dental Checkups?
Our Miami Gardens dentists aim to identify and treat developing problems sooner rather than later, making them easier, less invasive, and less costly. When you come in for your dental cleaning and exam, you can look forward to the following:
- Dental X-rays as needed
- Oral cancer screening
- Sticky plaque buildup and tartar removal
- Tooth stain removal by polishing enamel
- Screening for tooth decay and gum disease
- Checking every tooth for chips, cracks, cavities
- Evaluating your jaw and bite for abnormalities
- Ensuring that your current tooth restorations are in good shape
- Scheduling to treat any current issues
- Reviewing your at-home care if needed and recommending helpful products
- Giving you answers to your questions and concerns
Why Biannual Dental Exams?
Cavities mean the following and should not be ignored:
- Toothaches
- Tooth sensitivity when you eat or drink hot, cold, acidic, or sweet foods and beverages
- Pitting or a hole in a tooth
- Painful abscess around a tooth
As enamel loses its armor, cavities launch a sneak attack – lurking within teeth, plotting at the roots, or even infiltrating the jawbone. The real trouble? When the infection goes rogue, it spreads its mischief to neighboring teeth. A cracked tooth, feeling fragile with every bite, holds a hidden menace. Should it shatter, you won’t need a crystal ball to predict the agony. But fear not! Our routine dental checkups are your shield, detecting these dental villains in their infancy, sparing you both pain and a hefty bill! Today, learn more about biannual oral care from our dentist in Miami Gardens, FL.
Daily Oral Hygiene Between Dental Cleanings
Your best protection between dental cleanings and exams is to brush twice a day, floss at least once daily, and use an antibacterial mouthwash to kill germs if you want to keep tooth decay and gum disease from gaining a foothold. Drink plenty of water daily, eat a balanced diet, and limit unhealthy drinks and foods as much as possible.
While we are seeing more problems with patients coming back after skipping dental cleanings this past year, know that we will never make you feel bad about missing your dental appointments! Our team can expertly clean your teeth and check for developing problems so we can fix them early. We will also review your daily routine to ensure you have the best tools possible to fill in any gaps. Count on American Dental Center to get back on track to a healthier, happier smile! Call our Miami Gardens dentist to schedule a dental cleaning and exam for yourself or your family members!
