If you’ve been taking great care of your oral health — diligently brushing at least twice a day and flossing regularly — you might be thinking about skipping your upcoming dental visit. This is especially tempting if you’re not experiencing any tooth pain or visibly noticing any issues with your smile. However, there are consequences that come from relying solely on your at-home regimen and plenty of reasons to stick with that upcoming appointment.
Your Dentist’s Toothbrush Isn’t Like Yours
At a professional dental cleaning, your hygienist has instruments to utilize that work far better than your toothbrush at home, even if you’re using an electric version. They use high-powered instruments designed specifically to remove plaque build-up and tarter that are nearly impossible to brush away at home. Their tools also work under the gum line, ensuring that you keep gum disease at bay. The rule of thumb to remember is that only your hygienist or dentist can remove tartar.
Detect Gum Disease Early
Gum disease and other serious oral health issues often go undetected until pain and inflammation tip you off that you have an issue. However, regular visits to your dentist can help identify gum disease and other oral health issues early, easing the treatment plan and lessening your discomfort. At every visit, your hygienist and dentist aren’t just cleaning — they are giving you a visual examination and looking for any lurking issues.
You’re Getting a Mouth Cancer Screening
While your dentist might not say it directly, part of their process during a routine visit is to look for any signs of mouth cancer. They’re looking for mouth sores that aren’t healing, growths or lumps inside the mouth, or white or reddish patches inside the mouth. Mouth cancer can occur on the lips, gums, tongue, inner cheek lining, roof of the mouth, and under the tongue. Some of these areas aren’t visible in your mirror, making it difficult to see any early warning signs. Those regular trips to your dentist just might save your life.
Opportunity for Good Advice
A visit with your dentist might result in a recommendation that you didn’t even know was needed. For example, your hygienist or dentist might notice you’re missing certain teeth while brushing and recommend a different type of toothbrush or a different brushing technique. If you feel your teeth are losing their shiny white appearance, they can talk you through whitening processes and products that are effective and safe — and warn you of over-the-counter options to stay away from.
If you have additional questions about the value of dental cleanings versus at-home care, contact us.