The American Dental Association recommends having a cleaning and checkup every 6 months. Often, routine dental appointments are viewed as more of a luxury than a necessity. However, they are essential for a healthy, beautiful smile, as well as your overall well-being. Semi-annual cleanings and checkups allow you to benefit from the power of early detection. Here are just a few ways a quick trip to your dentist can save you a lot of hassle and expenses later.
Oral Health and General Wellness Are Connected
Your oral health and overall wellness are connected. Various dental issues can increase your risk of many health conditions. In particular, gum disease has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer’s, diabetic complications, and low birth rates. Not to mention, certain health issues can also affect your teeth and gums. Your dentist can spot potential health concerns by taking a look in your mouth, like acid reflux or oral cancer.
You Only Get One Set of Permanent Teeth
Your teeth are meant to last for a lifetime, but 120 million Americans are missing at least one tooth. Every tooth is invaluable to your oral health and quality of life. Losing even one can have long-term consequences for your mouth and body. With 92% of adults experiencing tooth decay and at least 50% of Americans having a form of gum disease, routine appointments allow your dentist to detect common issues while they are still small. This will safeguard your smile from tooth loss.
Avoid Dental Emergencies
You probably never expect it to happen to you, but 1 in 6 Americans experiences a dental emergency every year. Many are the result of untreated dental issues, like cavities. A cleaning and checkup allows your dentist to detect and treat any issues before they turn into a big problem.
Save Money Down the Road
Research has shown that $1 of preventative dentistry can save up to $50 on restorative and emergency fees. You’ll be less likely to require dental work later by keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Visiting your dentist twice a year is an investment in a healthy mouth and reduces your overall dental expenses.
If it has been a while since you’ve seen a dentist, there’s no better time than now to schedule an appointment. If you have dental insurance, your benefits can pay 100% of the expenses for preventative dentistry after a co-payment. You can invest in healthy teeth and gums for minimal out-of-pocket expenses while harnessing the power of early detection.
About Dr. James Garland
Dr. Garland earned his dental degree from the University of Louisville School of Dentistry and has continued his education in various specialties, including dental implants and sleep apnea therapy. He offers personalized solutions to support the mouth and body connection. Request an appointment through his website or call his office at (502) 427-1091.