HEALTH & WELLBEING
It ’ s something that you ’ ve heard over and over but why are regular dental visits so important ?
Dental appointments shouldn ’ t just be made when you have a problem that needs to be addressed . Prevention is always better than needing a cure and there are plenty more reasons why it ’ s important to maintain regular visits to your local dental practice : Check for mouth cancer This is one of the most important things your dentist will do at every checkup . Dentists will do an examination for signs of mouth cancer , as well as head |
|
|
|
and neck cancer . To do this they will be checking for any lumps on your head or neck . They will also check for any red or white patches in the mouth . Usually , these checks will find nothing unusual , but they could potentially save your life . Dental hygienists Dental hygienists and therapists are often overlooked when it comes to our oral health , but they can be extremely valuable for both the services they can offer and the advice they can give . Dental
hygienists are mainly concerned with ‘ preventive ’ dental health and treating gum disease – showing you correct home care and helping you to keep your teeth and gums healthy . This includes professionally cleaning your teeth ( usually called a ‘ scale and polish ’) by removing plaque and tartar , both of which encourage tooth decay and gum disease .
Consultations about tooth whitening
Tooth whitening has grown in popularity over recent years but there are plenty of myths out there that can lead to confusion about what is safe , as well as issues of legality . Your dentist is in the best position to give you advice about your options when it comes to tooth whitening . They are in the best position because not only do they know a lot about teeth whitening but they are also the only place you can legally get your teeth professionally whitened .
They can catch things early or prevent them from happening
With just a mirror you can see how your teeth are looking but underneath your gums a lot can be going on without you even realising it . Dentists not only solve problems , they can prevent them . Potential problems they can spot include the onset of gum disease and dental decay . When it comes to your oral health it is important you are proactive and seeing your dentist regularly so that they can catch any issues early , before they become a problem .
Dentists can provide help and advice specific to your needs
Often when people have a problem they turn to the internet , a placed filled with lots of great information , but also misinformation . On the other hand , a dentist has had to train for years to be qualified in the profession and will provide guidance you can trust . By visiting your dentist regularly , you can build a good relationship that will allow them to tailor advice and support specific to your needs over a long period of time .
There really isn ’ t anyone better placed to help you keep on top of your oral health than your dentist , so they should be your first port of call when it comes to concerns about your teeth and mouth .
Courtesy of dentalhealth . org 22 ISSUE 111 // SEPTEMBER 2024 theindependentmagazine . com . au THE HILLS INDEPENDENT