Even if your teeth are straight and white seeing your dentist annually will assist in keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Here are a few reasons why you should see your dentist annually:
Preventive Care
Ottawa dentists can provide you with preventive care at your annual dental checkups. They will keep an eye on your gums, look for signs of damage to existing dental work, and take x-rays to spot any issues that might cause trouble down the line. The sooner issues are identified the more affordable the treatment will be and the better chance there is of you avoiding serious issues.
Beyond Dental Care
Many patients do not realize that their dentist does more than provide dental care at annual checkups. Dentists also provide the following screening:
- Examining your face and neck
- Checking your lymph nodes and jaw joints
- Checking your mouth for lesions or issues such as signs of oral cancer
Dental Exam
Your dental exam will be very thorough and include a series of x-rays every two years as well as looking for a number of things including:
- Gum disease
- Loose teeth
- Issues with your bite
- Tooth decay
- Broken or damaged teeth
- Changes such as receding gums
- Dental appliance issues
- Contact between your teeth
- Your concerns
Dental Cleaning
This is one of the most important aspects of your annual dental exam as this is where your teeth are given a thorough cleaning to remove the buildup plaque and tartar that can lead to gum disease and tooth decay. A thorough cleaning will include a final polishing as well as instruction on care for trouble areas you might have due to improper brushing or failing to floss.
Dental Treatment Plan
Ottawa dentists will also discuss potential dental treatment plans you might require based on their findings at your exam. You can also discuss cosmetic treatments you might be interested in pursuing such as teeth whitening, bonding or veneers. Your overall dental health and the appearance of your smile will be in your Ottawa dentists' hands and they can better manage not only your dental health but the look of your smile.
Taking care of your teeth is just as important as eating well and exercising regularly. Ottawa dentists provide the annual care and exams you need to keep your teeth and gums healthy while keeping an eye out for more serious issues such as oral cancer.
