You should see the dentist twice a year. Attending these cleanings isn’t always easy, especially if you’re a college student who’s going to school in another state. Fortunately, summer break and your return home is an excellent time to schedule a checkup. These exams play a crucial role in your oral health, so consider the following reasons to schedule one once the semester ends.

Why Dental Exams Are Important for College Students

1. Busy Schedules Make It Hard to Brush & Floss

From late-night studying to early morning classes, it can be challenging to remember to brush and floss. If these essential tasks are kept on the back burner, decay-causing bacteria will accumulate and set the stage for tooth decay, which can cause cavities, root canal infections, and gum disease.

During the exam, a dental hygienist will clean plaque and tartar from your teeth. They’ll then identify outstanding needs, like cavities, so the dentist can resolve them before they worsen.

2. Your Diet May Be Less Than Ideal

Between the selections at the on-campus mini-mart and cafeteria, it can be difficult to eat healthily, especially if you’re on the go and the food is cheap. As a result, you may have been living off of instant meals, packaged sweets, and fast foods this semester. When coupled with sugar-loaded coffee and energy drinks, these eating habits drastically increase the likelihood of tooth decay.

Fortunately, your dental team can offer advice during your appointment. They may recommend preparing tooth-friendly snacks, like apple slices or carrot sticks, the night before school, so you can munch on them throughout the day. You can also abstain from adding sweeteners to your coffee to reduce stains and lingering sugars.

3. Partying Can Lead to Poor Health Choices

Meeting new people and enjoying your freedom as a young adult is part of college life. However, excessive drinking and smoking can have adverse effects on your oral health. Going to your dental appointments will give you an opportunity to learn the side effects of these substances, such as dry mouth, tooth decay, and oral cancer. With this knowledge, you’ll be able to make lifestyle changes to better protect your health.

If you’re due for a visit to the dentist, contact Kathleen Kujiraoka, DDS, in Kaneohe, HI. This dentist welcomes patients of all ages and offers a variety of oral care services, from routine checkups to veneers. To get more information about her services, visit the website or call (808) 235-2121.