The Importance of Proper Dental Care
Most people put a lot of emphasis on health care, but tend to underestimate the importance of proper dental care. Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing regularly is not always going to keep your teeth in tip top shape by itself. Regularly scheduled check-ups with a dentist is paramount to preventing major problems, or at the very least, catching issues before they get out of hand. Getting a deep cleaning from an oral hygienist is recommended twice a year to get rid of excess tarter buildup that brushing alone cannot eliminate. It is also recommended that X-rays are taken at least once a year in order to catch cavities, cracks, or other problems that may not be visible to the naked eye.
Unfortunately, many people wait until they are in pain to seek the help of a dentist. Usually when there is pain present, there is a serious issue that will require some major work. This isn’t always the case, however. Sometimes, however, a slight infection can cause tremendous discomfort, but can easily be eliminated with antibiotics if it is caught early. Delaying dental care when there is something wrong is never a good idea. Even if you can live with the pain, the problem will only continue to worsen if left untreated. Other teeth may be affected and infection can spread to other organs like the heart, which could lead to serious health concerns or even death.
While good oral hygiene at home on a daily basis will help keep your mouth in great shape, remember that seeing a dentist at least twice a year and addressing any pain immediately are also just as important. Many dentists provide a discount for patients who pay cash, so don’t let a lack of insurance keep you from taking the best care of your smile.
