Have you ever wondered about the consequences of skipping your dental cleanings? In the pursuit of maintaining a healthy and radiant smile, regular dental cleanings play a pivotal role. By neglecting these crucial appointments, you may unwittingly jeopardize the well-being of your pearly whites. Continue reading to learn about the reasons why missing these cleanings can have adverse effects on your oral health and discover the importance of keeping up with your routine dental visits.
Cavities
Cavities, scientifically known as dental caries, represent one of the most prevalent threats to our oral health. These insidious tooth decays often begin inconspicuously, akin to a minuscule pinhole, initiating their journey within the enamel, the sturdy outer layer of our teeth.
In the initial stages, you might remain blissfully unaware, experiencing no discomfort, and oblivious to the cavity’s presence, as it stealthily takes months to develop. However, with regular dental checkups, these cavities are promptly detected and remedied through fillings.
Yet, if left unattended, they possess the potential to penetrate deeper layers of the tooth, ultimately reaching the nerve. At this juncture, excruciating pain ensues, necessitating more invasive treatments like root canals, and in rare instances, even tooth extractions to rectify the issue.
Periodontal Disease
Neglecting your gums can lead to gum disease, which starts with bacteria buildup causing redness and inflammation along the gum line. Regular hygienist visits are crucial for removing hidden bacteria, including hardened calculus.
If left untreated, gum disease can progress into periodontal disease, where microbes attack the tissue and bone supporting your teeth. This can lead to tooth loss and has links to serious health conditions like Alzheimer’s, heart disease, and diabetes. Sadly, up to 25% of adults over 65 have lost all their teeth due to untreated oral disease.
The Best Preventive Care Routine
Remember, when it comes to dentistry, think prevention. Many issues can be prevented by maintaining consistent brushing, flossing, and regular dentist visits.
Ironically, those who avoid dental appointments often end up needing more frequent visits to address bigger problems that arose from neglecting check-ups. It all boils down to the basics: a balanced diet with limited sugar, proper brushing using fluoride toothpaste twice daily, and visiting your dentist every six months to catch and treat cavities early.
Semiannual dental checkups and cleanings should be a painless experience. Just be sure to practice good oral health care at home to keep your smile looking lovely!
About the Practice
At Amberly Dental, our team is committed to delivering exceptional dental care to our patients. We provide a comprehensive range of services, including preventive, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency treatments, all with the goal of preserving your smile’s health and beauty. If it’s been some time since your last professional teeth cleaning, we’ll walk you through the process, ensuring it’s a comfortable and pleasant experience. To schedule an appointment or if you want to find out more, please reach out to Amberly Dental’s office at (402) 786-2007 or visit our website.