Don’t Brush Off Your Annual Exam!
Unless there’s a dental emergency or pain, it can be easy to overlook your teeth. Of course, San Mateo Center for Cosmetic Dentistry doesn’t recommend that, but we understand how the busyness of life can derail your best intentions. Keeping up with routine dental appointments is important, especially when it comes to protecting your oral health.
While you may brush and floss daily as recommended, seeing your dentist twice each year is one of the best lines of defense for your teeth. Why is it so important? Here are a few reasons for you to consider.
Prevent Dental Emergencies
During your annual exam, your dentist can uncover any cavities, chips, or cracks you may be unaware of; and a thorough cleaning will remove the plaque and tartar build-up that even the most diligent tooth-brusher can miss.
Plaque is the accumulation of bacteria in your mouth, and it hardens into tartar — which eventually erodes the protective outer tooth enamel, which leads to tooth decay. Keeping up with your annual exams will help you keep your teeth clean, gums healthy, and cavities at bay.
Improve Overall Health
Speaking of bacteria, those microorganisms in your mouth can be responsible for all sorts of issues if left unchecked. Not just the source of plaque, tartar, and cavities, oral bacteria can also lead to gum disease, bad breath, and even cardiac, respiratory, and digestive issues.
Screen for Oral Cancer
A routine dental exam will also uncover any other oral health concerns that may be lurking. Oral cancer, for example, can develop on the gums, lips, tongue, or inside of the cheek, and may appear as a sore that won’t heal or white/red patches that won’t go away.
Your dentist will check for any signs of oral cancer during your annual dental check-up, and help you find the appropriate treatment and care.
Cosmetic dentistry is another great option for a sparkling white smile. Our office provides teeth whitening and other services such as veneers, crowns, and Invisalign clear braces to ensure a perfect smile.
Even with life’s hectic pace, don’t forget to take care of your teeth – and always keep your annual exam appointments.
Is it time to schedule yours?