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It’s tempting to put off a dental visit when life gets busy, but procrastination has a habit of accumulating. Even when you don’t have any immediate problems with your teeth and gums, biannual dentist appointments shouldn’t be missed. Here are several reasons why scheduling a checkup twice a year is a must for your long-term oral health.

Why It’s Important to Visit the Dentist Every 6 Months

1. Oral Cleanings

Oral cleanings are often the main focus of a regular dental checkup. During these cleanings, a hygienist will check your teeth, gums, tongue, and mouth for any abnormalities. They’ll thoroughly clean and polish your teeth with special tools to remove built-up plaque.

They might also apply a fluoride treatment to fortify your teeth’s enamel. Even if you brush and floss daily, there are some spots you simply can’t reach yourself. These deep cleanings, therefore, help you maintain ongoing oral health. 

2. Cavity Detection

During the twice-a-year visit, the dentist will inspect your teeth for cavities. These start small but can develop into large, painful hazards if they aren’t treated quickly. If you’re seeing a professional regularly, they’ll have the chance to spot and treat cavities before they grow into a more serious and expensive oral health issue. 

3. X-Rays 

dentistEven if your dental hygiene routine at home is on point, there’s no way to see what’s happening beneath the surface without certain equipment. Oral X-rays can reveal root issues, incoming teeth, decay, and other changes that aren’t visible to the naked eye. If you're experiencing tooth pain, for example, and can’t pin down the source, an X-ray may be able to shed light on the underlying issue. 

4. Oral Cancer Screening

Oral cancer is another serious threat that’s hard for the untrained eye to detect. Dentists are trained to spot the warning signs of this condition, and they have the proper equipment to aid them. Oral cancer can evolve into a life-threatening health condition if it’s not treated quickly, so early detection and treatment are well worth the investment of your time. 

 

If you’re ready to establish a biannual dental health schedule, turn to Elm Dental Care in St. Charles, MO. With their experience in general and cosmetic dentistry, their capable team can handle all your oral health needs in a comfortable, compassionate office environment. To find out more about the services they offer to the New Town community, head to their website or call (636) 916-4848. 

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