Despite being aware that regular visits to the dentist are necessary, many people forego them each year. Whether due to a phobia or simply thinking their mouths are healthy, skipping these visits has a serious impact on your oral health. The staff at Richmond Hill Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Bryan County, GA, says you’re setting yourself up for many problems by skipping these visits, which is why they want to explain their importance. By understanding exactly what these exams accomplish, you’ll better recognize why they’re essential.

3 Reasons Regular Dental Exams Are Important

1. Prevention

The first priority of your dentist isn’t to treat oral health issues — it’s to prevent them. When you visit them for a cleaning, they aren’t just sprucing up your smile or filling a cavity. They’re looking for risk factors and warning signs of other, more serious issues. Catching these early can have a significant impact on the future of your oral health, and it’s also a valuable time for them to educate you on at-home care. Even if the visit doesn’t seem serious, it’s one of the staples of healthy dental care.

2. Early Treatment

If you are dealing with some oral health issues, you likely aren’t aware that they’re there. When you skip visits to the dentist, you’re allowing them to advance, ultimately becoming more serious issues. Cavities becoming root canals and gingivitis advancing to gum disease are just a few examples. It’s important to receive early treatment, and if you’re visiting the dentist regularly, they’ll be able to provide it.

3. Management

Chronic oral health issues require careful management. It can be as simple as tooth sensitivity or as serious as gum disease. Your dentist needs to monitor the progress of these issues so they can make any care adjustments needed. Regular visits are the only time they can do this and are your best chance of lessening side effects or achieving recovery.

If you’re ready to schedule your next dental exam, turn to the staff at Richmond Hill Family & Cosmetic Dentistry. They offer both adult and kid’s dentistry services, and their oral surgeons will help with any cosmetic issues you’re dealing with. Call (912) 756-3880 to schedule an appointment, and visit their website and Facebook to learn more about their practice.