Having to visit the dentist every six months may not be the appointment that everyone looks forward to, but it is one of the most important ones to keep. If you have found yourself wondering what the point of having regular dental check-ups and cleanings really is, we’ve got something for you to think about.

If you are considering skipping a dental check-up or dental hygiene appointment because of cost or another factor like time or dental anxiety, make sure to consider all the risks. What you might end up paying in the long run for missing your appointments will likely be much higher both for your wallet and your peace of mind. Here are some of the most important reasons why you should never skip out on your dental cleaning appointments.

Oral Cancer Detection

Oral cancer is an extremely serious disease. Oral cancer is often not diagnosed and can quickly progress and become life-threatening. But, thankfully, an early stage oral cancer diagnosis is often easily treatable.

A VELscope cancer exam is non-invasive, entirely pain-free and lasts only a minute or two. The exam catches invisible signs of dead tissue caused by tumors forming a special light inside the mouth.

Plaque, Tartar and Cavities

There are still small areas in the mouth that are missed by regular brushing and flossing. When plaque builds up, it solidifies and turns into tartar, which is extremely difficult to get rid of without professional help.

Regular dental cleanings prevent tartar from eroding teeth or causing cavities. When cavities develop, you will have to go back to the dentist to have them filled and fixed. This can all be avoided with regular cleanings.

A cleaning appointment is also more affordable than getting a filling so you should make sure not to miss the cleanings.

Gum Disease

Plaque and tartar buildup not only cause tooth decay but can also erode the mouth’s gum tissues leading to gum disease. Gum disease has three stages: gingivitis, periodontitis and advanced periodontitis. While gingivitis can be cured with a thorough dental cleaning, waiting until it develops into its later stages may require tooth extraction or even surgery. This clearly shows the importance of regular dental cleanings in catching and addressing gingivitis before it gets out of hand.

Find Problems Under the Surface With X-Rays

An essential part of your dental cleaning appointment is getting your teeth, and jaw bone x-rayed. X-ray images allow dental professionals to see what is happening beneath the surfaces of your mouth and can find and diagnose issues that may be invisible to the naked eye.

Missing your dental cleaning appointments may not seem like a big deal, but oral issues can develop and progress very quickly. Therefore, it is vital to attend your dental cleanings and check-ups. Contact us to schedule your visit today.