A Routine Dental Checkup Can Provide Proactive Care

If you want to provide the best possible care for your teeth, you should make sure to receive routine checkups from your general dentist. During a routine visit, your hygienist can offer a thorough cleaning that goes above and beyond what you can receive through brushing and flossing alone. This visit also allows your dentist to inspect your teeth, mouth, and gums for the onset of any oral health issues. Preventive visits enable your dentist to identify problems, even before symptoms start to develop.

Cavity Detection And Treatment

The early detection of a cavity can mean an easier, less invasive treatment. A cavity forms when the bacteria in your teeth have begun to erode your enamel. If the tooth decay is limited to the enamel, your dentist can excise the damaged area, and restore your tooth with a filling. However, when a cavity is left unaddressed, it can eat through your enamel and dentin, and attack the living tissue in the inner chamber of your tooth. If bacteria accesses that living tissue, it can compromise the health of your tooth, and spread to your jaw bone through the root. At this stage, your dentist will need to perform root canal therapy to eliminate the threat to your tooth.

Other Problems With Your Oral Health

During a routine visit is meant to address more than just your teeth. During a checkup, your dentist can also inspect the health of your gums, and the inside of your mouth. If you show signs of gum disease, you may require special treatment to restore their health. These visits also enable your dentist to scan for signs of serious health problems, like oral cancer.