Your dentist recommends that you have a routine dental examination twice per year. It is easy to allow this type of infrequent appointment to slip your mind. And, if you only have to go twice per year, does it really matter if you miss? The reality is that you cannot afford to skip out on preventative dentistry. The appointments may be infrequent but they are extremely important to your oral and overall health. This type of dental care is essential because prevention is less expensive than treatment, some damage is irreversible once it occurs, and many common issues can be treated when caught early.

Prevention is less expensive than treatment

Prevention is much less expensive than treatment when it comes to taking care of your teeth. During routine dental visits you will have harmful bacteria, plaque, and tartar removed from your teeth. Tartar is plaque that has hardened and it cannot be removed with brushing alone. Getting these substances off of your teeth during your routine visits can help prevent problems such as decay and gum disease. A high quality daily oral care routine combined with routine dental visits are the best way to prevent problems. It is much less expensive to get an exam and cleaning twice per year than it is to constantly need treatment for issues such as cavities and gum disease.

Some damage is irreversible once it occurs

Some damage to your teeth and gums is irreversible once it occurs. Severe gum disease can cause your gums to recede and separate from your teeth. Without proper treatment this can lead to permanent tooth loss. Tooth decay can usually be treated in the early stages without significant damage to the tooth. If the decay is allowed to progress without intervention it will eventually lead to tooth death and loss. This type of serious damage cannot be reversed once it occurs. If you lose a tooth because of these issues you will have to consider tooth replacement options like implants, bridges, and dentures. Preventative dentistry will allow your dentist to treat these issues before they result in permanent damage.

Many common issues can be treated when caught early

Preventative exams twice per year will allow your dentist to find and treat issues while they are manageable. A small cavity can be treated quickly and without any significant loss of tooth structure. The early stages of gum disease can often be completely reversed by improving aspects of your oral care routine. The impact of these common dental issues can be minimized or eliminated when they are treated early.

Preventative dentistry can save you money, time, and help prevent pain. It is in your best interest to be proactive with your dental care instead of waiting for a problem to occur before you seek help. If you are ready to get back on track with your preventative dental care, schedule an appointment at Dental Remedies.