When a dentist recommends two checkups a year, it’s far from an arbitrary schedule. Brushing and flossing are crucial every day, but you could be missing out on valuable benefits to your teeth and gums if you don’t schedule at least two appointments every year. Here’s a closer look at the importance of this habit.

Why Visit Your Dentist Twice a Year?

1. Enjoy Cleaner Teeth

Regular teeth cleaning is vital to your oral health. During this treatment, your provider will remove the plaque that’s built up on your teeth and beneath the gums. This will prevent tartar accumulation that may otherwise lead to cavities and gum disease. Cleaning also involves flossing and polishing the teeth to a degree your dental hygiene routine at home can’t achieve.

2. Get Cancer Screenings

Early detection of oral cancer may save lives. Dentists can detect many of the symptoms responsible for this serious disease during a routine examination, but because some cancerous symptoms don’t manifest right away, they may not catch it early enough if you don’t visit them every six months.

Two thorough visits every year give your provider the opportunity to properly check for any changes that may have occurred, such as sores, bumps, and white spots. You’re more at risk if you drink alcohol or use tobacco, so anyone who uses these substances should ask about screening frequency.

3. Avoid Painful Problems

Not all dental problems present symptoms right away. You may not notice a cavity in its early stages, and you might develop a toothache only after significant damage occurs. A dentist can fill the cavity before it has a chance to worsen and potentially affect the underlying bone and root.

Advanced gum disease is a serious problem that affects 47% of adults over age 30 and 70% over age 65. Left untreated, it can cause your gums to deteriorate and lead to bleeding, pain, soreness, and even tooth loss. With regular visits, however, your provider can identify the problem before it grows worse.
 

If you’re committed to your oral health, visit Martin & Rutledge Family Dentistry in Gulf Shores, AL. Proudly serving patients throughout South Baldwin County, the dentists offer comprehensive services to ensure the good health of your teeth and gums, including cleaning, whitening, cosmetic dentistry, and extractions. The practice has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau® and proudly accepts CareCredit®​​​​​​​. To find out more about how Dr. Martin and Dr. Rutledge can help you achieve the smile of your dreams, visit the website or call (251) 968-4446 to schedule an appointment.