The Importance of Regular Dental CheckUps

Regular dental checkups are very important for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. You should visit your dental professional at least two times a year to ensure that your smile stays strong. Read through this article to learn all about the importance of regular dental checkups.

Clean Teeth

Even the most fastidious person can fail to clean the difficult places in their mouth. This is one of the biggest reasons we recommend regular checkups. During your visit, the dentist will examine your teeth to look for signs of early decay, cavities, and white spots. Additionally, a dental professional will spend time cleaning your teeth and removing any plaque or tartar. This will protect your teeth and gums from attacks by harmful bacteria that make their home in plaque and tartar. Our team at Downtown Franklin Family Dentistry offers the highest standard of treatment to all patients. From simple to complex hygiene needs, you can be assured that you will be gently and thoroughly cared for. Our licensed hygienists are fully trained in the necessary disciplines that allow them to approach all facets of your dental needs.

Check for Oral Diseases

Your dentist will also check for signs of oral cancer during your visit. If oral cancer goes undetected, it can develop into a life-threatening illness, which is why it’s so important for the dentist to examine your mouth. Your dental professional will also make sure that your gums are firm and check for swelling, receding gums, and deep pockets. If any of these signs are discovered, they will treat the underlying cause. Usually, early gum disease goes away when a patient improves their oral habits, and a regular dental appointment should be included in this routine. Finally, your checkup will include a head and neck exam. During this exam, the dental professional will check your lymph nodes, neck, and jaw for swelling, lumps, and deformities. If a problem is found, your dentist will refer the patient to the appropriate medical professional.

Strengthen Your Smile

In some circumstances, you need to consider periodontal treatment. If the pocket, or area between the tooth and gum, becomes infected, a skilled hygienist will need to treat the infection with an instrument and irrigation. They may also recommend an antimicrobial called Perio Chip to help reduce the bacteria count. You may also have a tooth removed in the case of a large decay or trauma. When a tooth is removed, an implant is a predictable replacement option. A medical-grade titanium post or implant is placed in the socket and a crown is made to fit the implant in order to restore your smile. When teeth are compromised by large fillings, fractures, and/or root canal treatments, it may be necessary to cover the tooth with a cap or crown.

We highly recommend taking the time to visit your dentist at least every six months. It will keep your teeth healthy and strong for a very long time. To schedule an appointment at Downtown Franklin Family Dentistry, visit our website or give us a call at 615-595-6111.