HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU GET A DENTAL CHECK-UP?

Aregular dental check-up aids in the prevention of a variety of oral health issues, including but not limited to periodontal disease, tooth decay, and tooth stains.

Tooth decay occurs when the teeth's outermost layer, known as the dental enamel, begins to erode. This occurs as a result of an acidic reaction caused by a combination of bacteria and particles from food, drinks, etc.

A dental exam detects early signs of tooth decay and can help prevent it by strengthening weakened enamel.

Untreated oral hygiene issues may become more challenging to treat in the future, so it's best to deal with them early or, if possible, prevent them entirely.

Here are the five most important benefits of regular dental check-ups:

• Identify oral health issues: During a dental check-up, your dentist will examine your mouth for signs of cavities, gum disease, infection, oral cancer, and other dental health issues. Your dentist may also take X-rays to detect problems that are not visible to the naked eye.

Cavities between teeth, impacted teeth, jaw injury, bone decay, and other issues may be present.

• Have your teeth professionally cleaned: At your semi-annual dental check-up, your teeth will be professionally cleaned to remove plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing cannot remove. Plaque and tartar on your teeth can lead to tooth decay, gum inflammation, and other dental issues.

A teeth cleaning is also less expensive than fillings, crowns, and other restorative procedures. So make sure to do these regularly!

• Discuss cosmetic procedures with your dentist: Your regular dental visit is an excellent time to discuss cosmetic procedures such professional teeth whitening with your dentist.

Because these procedures are not appropriate for everyone, your dentist can make recommendations based on your specific needs and goals.

• Learn how to maintain better oral health: When you go in for your regular dental check-up, your dentist will educate you on ways to better care for your oral health. The dentist will examine your mouth for any oral damage caused by bad habits such as smoking or vaping, teeth grinding, brushing too hard, and your diet. Your dentist can then advise you on modifying your lifestyle choices to improve your oral health.

• Make long-term fifinancial savings: Your dentist can assist you in identifying and correcting problems before they require more costly dental work and more complicated procedures in the future. Furthermore, some dental insurance plans cover a certain amount of cleanings/check-ups per year, so you won't have to pay anything out of pocket.

It's commonly said that you should see a dentist twice a year. After your check-up, your dentist will recommend a date for your next visit. Your next check-up could be in three months or two years (or up to one year if you're under the age of 18).

Generally, the lower your risk of dental problems, the longer you can wait before your next check-up.

People with good oral health will probably only need to come in once every 12 to 24 months, whereas those with more problems will need to come in more frequently.

Other appointments may be required for dental treatments such as fillings, tooth extractions, or emergency care. Call your dentist to schedule an appointment if you have problems with your teeth in between check-ups. - Supplied