Getting your teeth cleaned and checked regularly by a dentist is the most important thing you can do for your oral health. This can prevent a lot of Dentist Robina problems, from cavities to gum disease. During your check-up, the dentist will do a thorough examination of your teeth and mouth, along with x-rays. If there are any problems, such as a tooth that is missing, or an infection, they will be detected and treated before they get worse.
The American Dental Association recommends that adults visit the dentist at least twice a year, with most dental insurance plans covering two cleaning and exams per year. However, this is based on your individual needs, including if you have any risk factors for developing gum disease or other oral health issues.
Some people are tempted to skip their dental check-ups because they believe they are in good oral health, but this could actually be a very dangerous idea. This is because it is not uncommon for certain dental issues to become more serious, or to be difficult to treat, without having been identified in time.
Another reason to see the dentist on a regular basis is that they can detect early signs of oral cancer, and help you get treatment before it gets any worse. Oral cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in the world, and survival rates are high when it is diagnosed at an early stage.
A dental check-up can also help you to understand your oral health, so that you can take better care of it yourself. For instance, if you are prone to developing gingivitis (a mild form of gum disease), your dentist can give you some tips for improving your brushing habits, so that you can prevent the condition from getting worse.
Your dentist will also be able to pick up on any other issues you may have, such as diabetes or a temporomandibular disorder. Having these conditions can make it more difficult to clean your teeth and may mean that you need to have a deeper cleaning.
The number of times you need to have a dental check-up will depend on your risk factors and how well you look after your teeth and gums at home. For example, people with a history of gum disease should have more frequent visits than those with no risk factors.
During the dental check-up, your dentist will also take a close look at your medical history and any current medication you are taking. Some medicines can dry out your mouth and increase your risk of oral infections. Other medical conditions, such as diabetes or pregnancy, can also affect your teeth and gums.
For children, dental check-ups should happen as soon as the first baby tooth comes in or by their first birthday. As you get older, your dentist should be able to predict how often you will need to have a check-up and advise you accordingly.