Do you ever wonder why dentists and the American Dental Association recommend that you visit a dentist twice a year (every six months)? It is imperative to understand how regular dental visits are essential to keep your gums and teeth as healthy as possible. In between each visit, it is also important that you work every day to keep your teeth and gums the healthiest they can be.
During your visit to the dentist, there will be a detailed dental examination to check for many things. Most people believe dentists only look for tooth decay or other cavities. However, they check much more than that. Dentists or dental hygienists will evaluate the health of your gums, tongue, and throat, perform a head and neck evaluation, and expertly examine your mouth to find any indicators of oral cancer, diabetes, or deficiencies you may have in specific vitamins. They will also study your face, bite, saliva, and the movement of your lower jaw joints to ensure everything is in good standing. Next, the dentist or dental hygienist will give your teeth a nice, in-depth cleaning and emphasize the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene over the six months.
Dentists will pay close attention to any plaque and tartar buildup you may have. Bacteria that cause plaque and tartar do not take long to build up between your teeth if you do not practice oral hygiene between visits. Food, beverages, and tobacco can also stain the teeth and cause soft plaque to harden on the teeth. These products can irritate the gum tissue and lead to gum disease if not treated properly.
When the dentist is done with their examination and the proper teeth cleaning, it’s important to listen closely to them. The dentist will make any additional recommendations to keep your teeth in tip-top shape between your next visit. Seeing a dentist every six months is vital for routine examinations and cleanings. As long as you visit a dentist regularly, follow their suggestions, and maintain proper oral hygiene practices at home, the probability of maintaining healthy teeth and gums is extremely high.
If you are looking for a trusted dentist in the Livermore area, our dentists at Foothill Dental Care in Livermore are accepting new patients. Call us at (925) 961-5484 today or schedule your first visit now.