Although the American Dental Association recommends scheduling regular visits with your dentist every six months, only an estimated 65.5% of adults between 18 and 64 years old are reported to have seen their provider within the past year.
You might assume your mouth is healthy if you don’t see any obvious issues, but the truth is that skipping checkups can put your dental health at risk. Continue reading to learn about 3 things your dentist does during routine appointments that you might not have known about to help convince you to schedule an examination!
#1: Oral Cancer Screening
You would likely expect your dentist to evaluate the condition of your enamel and connective tissues during your routine visit, but did you know they also include an oral cancer screening? An estimated 54,000 new cases are diagnosed annually, and of those, the 5-year survival rate is about 64%.
It can be fatal in many cases, but thankfully, oral cancer can also be treated if it’s caught early enough. That’s why your dentist takes the time to screen the soft tissues of your mouth for any indicators that you might have developed a problem, such as ulcers or patches on your tongue, gums, or throat.
#2: Bite Alignment Analysis
Your bite alignment is another aspect of your oral health that you might not consider very frequently. Plenty of people take for granted that their upper and lower arches come together properly when they bite down. However, even if you’ve never had any issues in the past, it’s possible to develop a malocclusion later in life as your teeth, jawbone, and facial structure change with age.
Your dentist will take X-rays or scans of your teeth and test your bite alignment to help avoid potential TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders as well as the premature wear-and-tear of your enamel, which increases your vulnerability to cavities and other injuries.
#3: Evaluate Existing Dental Work
Have you ever had a decayed or damaged tooth that required a tooth-colored filling, dental crown, or other repair? Although these restorations can last 10+ years if cared for correctly, they tend to eventually wear down. This leaves the underlying tooth without the protective shield it needs to function normally, and it could sustain additional harm.
During your checkup, your provider will examine any existing dental work to help prevent potential problems and maintain your dental health. If they identify any areas of concern, they’ll provide an appropriate treatment plan for your approval before proceeding, such as placing a new crown or filling.
As you can see, visiting your dentist regularly offers several advantages that can help protect and preserve your oral and overall health.
About the Practice
Patients at Woodside Dental Care benefit from a team of dentists dedicated to helping families build and maintain the healthiest, happiest version of their smiles. Our providers collaborate to offer a comprehensive menu of services, so whether you need preventive care or a more complex procedure, they can help. They take the time to learn your unique concerns and goals, then tailor treatment plans to address them. You can request an appointment on the website or call (718) 898-6010.