The current economic climate has us all looking for opportunities to save, but if there’s one area that we shouldn’t be cutting back on – it’s our health.
It wouldn’t be wise to reduce your visits to the doctor, and the same goes for the dentist! Regular dental visits are just as important, making sure problems are detected early on and serious conditions are prevented.
While it might seem tempting to stretch out the frequency of your routine check-ups and hygiene visits, this blog post explains why regular appointments really are best for your health and wallet
How often do you really need to visit the dentist?
- For check-ups
How often you need to visit the dentist for check-ups will depend on the health of your teeth and gums. A lot of people assume that they need a check-up every 6 months, but this is different for everybody. Some people may need fewer than 2 check-ups a year, while others will need more. The best way to find out is by going for an initial check-up when your dentist will examine your teeth and advise you on how often you should attend regular check-ups. Remember, the longer you wait between check-ups, the higher your risk of developing a problem. - For hygiene appointments
Routine check-ups alone are not enough to stay on top of your oral health. Appointments with a dental hygienist are critical for keeping teeth and gums healthy, helping to prevent gum disease and tooth decay. Once you book your initial appointment, the hygienist will let you know how often to visit.
Treat and prevent oral health issues
Keeping up with regular check-ups and hygiene appointments will reduce your risk of developing a number of oral health problems, including:
- Tooth decay
The earlier that tooth decay is detected by a dental professional, the more simple and affordable treatment will be. Cavities can be symptomless, leaving you completely unaware of the issue until it becomes a bigger problem. - Dental calculus
A professional clean will ensure that all plaque and tartar is removed from teeth, lowering the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. This build-up is impossible to remove at home with brushing and flossing. - Gum disease
Over half of the UK population has gingivitis, which is the earliest stage of gum disease. Gingivitis is reversible when caught and treated early, which is why it is so important to see a hygienist regularly for a thorough clean. Read our recent blog to find out more about the risks of gum disease. - Oral cancer
One person is lost to mouth cancer every three hours, but the survival rate is 90% when it’s detected early. Routine oral cancer screening at the dentist ensures signs of cancer are caught as early as possible. - Bad breath
Bad breath (or halitosis) can be caused by tooth decay, tartar and gum disease. Regular check-ups and hygiene appointments can treat these dental problems that cause bad breath, leaving you feeling fresh and confident! - Stains
Teeth play a huge role in self-confidence, which is why we should try to keep them in as good condition as possible. Unsightly stains caused by coffee, tobacco, red wine and brightly coloured foods can impact self-esteem, but they are easily polished away during a short session with the hygienist.
Prevention is the best policy – for your wallet and your health
The longer you leave it before routine check-ups and hygiene appointments, the longer you are leaving potential problems untreated. This could make them more difficult to treat, and lead to more invasive and costly procedures in the future. As more research emerges about how bacteria-laden plaque could cause systemic disease in the heart, lungs and brain, it’s never been more important to take preventative care seriously.
Keeping up with regular dental appointments is the best way to treat problems early and prevent them completely. It also allows your dental professionals a chance to get to know you and your oral health, so they can provide personalised preventative hygiene advice to follow at home.
Don’t wait for a problem to start – book now
Book your next check-up or hygiene appointment at Ringley Park today by booking online or speaking to a member of our friendly team on 01737 240123.