The Importance of Regular Dental Checkups

The best thing you can do for your oral health is schedule routine dental care. While many people wait to see the dentist until a toothache becomes unbearable, regular visits are a much better way to prevent problems and preserve your long-term well-being. The professional cleaning is certainly an important part of any checkup, but it isn’t the only reason you should keep up with regular appointments. Learn more about the importance of dental checkups and how you can make the most of your next visit.

The Link Between Oral and Overall Health

We often think of our physical health as separate from our oral health, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Many conditions that affect the whole body are linked to dental issues. During an oral health checkup, your dentist isn’t just looking at your teeth. They’re also screening for signs of oral cancer, assessing the health of your gums, and checking your head, neck, and jaw for any problems. Here are just a few conditions that may be linked to dental health:

Cardiovascular Disease—Heart disease and gum disease may have a strong connection. Bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream, travel to the arteries in the heart, and contribute to inflammation and increased blood clots.
Diabetes—People with diabetes are more susceptible to gum disease. High blood sugar can weaken white blood cells, which are the body’s main defense against bacterial infections in the mouth.
Respiratory Infections—Bacteria from your mouth can be inhaled into the lungs, potentially causing respiratory infections like pneumonia. This is especially harmful for folks with weakened immune systems.

The Benefits of Regular Dental Visits

Regular dental visits are a crucial step in identifying these conditions and many others. Beyond that, routine dental care keeps the teeth clean and free of plaque—not to mention it keeps your breath fresher! During your visit, your dentist will check for all kinds of oral health concerns and recommend a fix before problems become worse. If you’re consistent about dental care, you could reduce the need for expensive and time-consuming treatment.

How Often Should You Visit the Dentist?

The long-standing recommendation is to visit the dentist every six months. However, some folks have needs that require more frequent visits. Your dentist might ask you to schedule additional checkups if you:

Have a history of gum disease
Are pregnant
Are a smoker
Have a weakened immune system
Tend to build up plaque and tartar quickly

What to Expect During a Dental Checkup

If it’s been a while since your last visit, you might have a bit of anxiety—this is completely normal! Thankfully, knowing what to expect can ease those nerves. A typical preventive dentistry appointment looks like this:

Medical History Review—If this is your first time with your dentist, they’ll talk to you about your overall health, medical history, and current medications.
Dental X-Rays—Your dentist might begin by taking X-rays. These images can detect issues not visible during a standard exam.
Professional Cleaning—The bulk of your appointment will be dedicated to cleaning. Your hygienist will remove all plaque and tartar, polish your teeth, and finish with a thorough flossing.
Dental Exam—Once your teeth are nice and clean, your dentist will examine your teeth, gums, and mouth for signs of decay and other potential problems.
Oral Cancer Screening—Before wrapping up, your dentist will check your gums, tongue, lips, and cheeks for any signs of oral cancer.
Ending Consultation and Treatment Plan—At the end of your appointment, your dentist will discuss any further treatment you might need. They’ll explain your options and answer your questions.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Dental Visits

An oral health checkup is always a good idea, especially if it’s been more than a year since your last visit. Try these tips to make the most of your appointment:

Be Honest—A good dentist will never shame you for your medical history or lifestyle. Be honest about the last time you saw the dentist and habits like smoking or drinking.
Ask Questions—Do you have concerns about your oral health? Don’t be afraid to ask questions. A quality dentist will be happy to explain things clearly.
Be Upfront About Concerns—If you’re experiencing any pain, sensitivity, or changes in your mouth, be sure to mention it at the beginning of your visit.
Talk About Anxiety—Dentists and hygienists know that many people have anxiety about visiting the dentist. Be open about your feelings, and the dental team can take steps to help you feel more comfortable.

Prioritize Routine Dental Care Today

Now that you have a deeper understanding of the importance of dental checkups, put that knowledge into action! Instead of waiting for a problem to arise, schedule an appointment at Brookwood Dental Center today. Our Fenton, MO team is happy to welcome all new patients, even if you haven’t seen the dentist in years.

FAQs About Oral Health Checkups

Are dental X-rays safe?

Yes, dental X-rays are very safe. They use extremely low levels of radiation, and dental offices take every precaution to minimize exposure.

Does a professional dental cleaning hurt?

For most people, a professional cleaning won’t cause much pain. You might feel some minor pressure, poking, or scraping sensations as the hygienist removes tartar. If you have sensitive teeth or gums, you might feel some discomfort, so be sure to let your dental team know.

What if I have dental anxiety?

There’s no shame in dental anxiety. Your best bet is always to talk openly about your fears. An experienced dentist will make every effort to ensure your comfort and dispel those nerves.