Regular dental checkups allow you and your dentist to stay ahead of dental problems, like tooth decay, periodontal (gum) disease and even oral cancer. The earlier your dentist diagnoses a problem the easier and less expensive it is to treat.
A professional dental cleaning is essential! As it is the only way to effectively remove tartar (hardened plaque). Tartar contains cavity-causing bacteria. Although, brushing and flossing regularly is mandatory to maintain a healthy smile, it is not sufficient alone. Tartar grips to your teeth and requires a professional to remove it.
Perhaps one of the most important reasons to invest in regular dental exams and cleanings is that it has a positive impact on your overall health. Recent studies have shown that there’s a link between periodontal disease and heart disease; when the former is present, the latter is twice as likely.
According to the American Academy of Periodontology, gum disease can have a domino effect on your health. The bacteria caused by periodontal disease can enter your bloodstream and attach to your heart’s blood vessels, causing them to swell. Inflammation, or swelling leads to atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries and places you at a greater risk of blood clots, heart attack and stroke.
Regular checkups and cleanings are not only preventative, they are an investment in your health and well-being.