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Oral Health Exam

The Importance of Regular Oral Checkups

Seeing the dentist isn’t likely on the top of your never-ending ‘to-do list’, yet regular oral checkups are an important part of maintaining optimal oral health, preventing disease, and keeping those pearly whites bright and healthy.

We’re all busier than we’d like to be these days, but making time for regular oral checkups can keep you out of the dentist chair and reduce the risk or need for even more invasive, time-consuming and costly treatments in the future.

But if we haven’t convinced you yet, here are a few reasons that highlight the importance of regular dental checkups….

Why Schedule Regular Oral Checkups

Regular oral examinations are the front line of defense against oral as well as your overall health. These simple, fast and affordable routine checkups can reveal the first signs of trouble. Systemic diseases and rheumatoid arthritis, to diabetes and cancer, may all present first in the mouth. These appointments are a preventative and proactive step towards helping you stay safe and happy, with a smile you’ll enjoy for decades to come.

Prevent Plaque and Tartar Build-up, as Well as Cavities and Tooth Decay

We can likely all agree that sticky plaque and tartar isn’t just unsightly, it’s unhealthy too. Just as bad are painful cavities and sensitive teeth due to decay.

Even the most judiciously self-disciplined individual who brushes thrice daily with floss can be susceptible to all of the above. Regular exams, every six months or so, are intended (in part) to prevent and remove the buildup of dangerous plaque and tartar, while also giving your pearly whites a professional scrub down and cleaning.

Say NO to Gum Disease

If not caught early, gum disease can spread and worsen, requiring significant treatments that are both expensive and increasingly invasive. One way to prevent this is to get checked regularly. During a routine oral exam, your dentist will look for signs of inflammation and risk factors for gum disease, providing you with the preventative treatment, education and resources to keep ahead of it.

Identify Potentially Deadly Illnesses, Such as Oral Cancer

Every oral exam includes screening for the signs of oral cancer. If caught early, many types of oral cancers are treatable with a good prognosis. However, if caught later, these cancers can be deadly. With the use of special dental lights, your dentist will be able to identify any dead tissues caused by tumours. Best of all, the process is painless and lasts less than a few minutes.

Head and Neck Exam

Regular oral checkups aren’t just about your teeth. Dentists are responsible for and trained to inspect both the head and neck for any signs or indications of systemic health conditions. They look for swelling, inflammation, deformities, abnormal growths, and thyroid.

When Should You Have a Dental Exam?

It is recommended that for adults, regular oral checkups be scheduled for every 6 months or as needed or prescribed by your dentist.

Has it been a while since your last checkup? No need to be embarrassed. We all get busy with life. Call or message us today and we can help you get you back up to speed in no time.