Maintaining great oral health is not just about creating a bright and straight smile, it is a necessary component of one's overall wellbeing. Individuals that fail to schedule frequent dental exams are putting themselves at risk for a number of health problems throughout their body. This is why it is necessary for individuals of all ages to stay aware of the importance of dental exams, what takes place during the average checkup, and some of the serious ailments that can be avoided with the preventative and general dentistry services offered by a local dentist.
Most specialists agree that a patient should visit their dentist at least once every six months. These appointments should start by the time the child's first tooth erupts or when they turn the age of one. Although many parents fail to schedule appointments for children at this age, this is when some of the most important preventative treatments will start. Parents will be instructed on the proper techniques for keeping the gums and baby teeth healthy.
In addition to this, kids will also be given the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of some of the leading treatments for the healthy growth of their permanent teeth. This includes options such as spacers, braces, fluoride treatment, and dental sealants. Each of these options will allow the child to develop healthy enamel and a balanced smile that will last a lifetime.
Dental exams do not lose their importance as individuals begin to age however, and everyone should seek out these twice a year appointments throughout their lifetime. Throughout these appointments, the dentist will begin with a complete oral inspection, searching for any serious abnormalities that may be the result of oral cancers, periodontal disease, and tooth decay. Patients should also receive dental x-rays at regular intervals, anywhere between six months and two years, in order for the dentist to detect decay or diseases that are taking place below the gums or within the teeth themselves.
The final step of the basic checkup will be a complete cleaning of the teeth. Nearly all of the foods that are eaten every single day will leave plaque and tartar within the mouth and on the teeth. Even though brushing and flossing will remove some of these substances, the bristles of a toothbrush cannot access some of the hardest to reach areas. When left untreated, plaque will start to develop acids and bacteria that will attack the teeth and gums, leading to periodontal disease and tooth decay.
The health of one's teeth and gums is very important and should never be left to chance. All individuals that have not received a dental checkup within the past six months should contact a local dentist today and start on the journey towards impeccable oral health.
Visit YourNorthridgeDentist.com to learn more about the importance of regular dental exams. Our Northridge dental exam experts advise all individuals to have regular dental checkups at least every six months.