The dentist is a source of anxiety for many people, which can lead to people skipping out on their regular checkups. Even if you aren’t afraid of the dentist, you may skip due to money issues or because you feel too busy to fit in yet another appointment.
Skipping out on regular exams can set you up for trouble later on, as you may need to spend even more time or money having those problems corrected. If you still aren’t convinced about the importance of visiting your McAllen dentist, here are five reasons you should have your checkup.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss Your Checkups
1. Check for Early Signs of Decay
Tooth decay is something most people will deal with. Many adults have at least one filling thanks to tooth decay. If you can catch it early, it is easier to fix.
Small cavities and white spots, for instance, can be fixed with a simple fluoride treatment. A checkup every six months can protect you from needing painful procedures later on.
2. Oral Cancer Screenings
While oral cancer is typically associated with smokers, the reality is that anyone can develop it. The best way to catch this serious health issue early is with regular screenings.
Thankfully, your McAllen, TX, dentist will perform this screening during your checkup, looking for any unusual changes in your mouth. The dentists in your area will also have tools available to help them find suspicious areas that need further testing.
3. Get Rid of Plaque and Tartar
Some parts of your mouth can be nearly impossible to reach with just a regular toothbrush and floss. The backs of your molars and between the teeth can be especially hard to clean.
Going in for a cleaning every six months will clean these hard-to-reach areas. Remember, plaque and tartar give bacteria a breeding ground and those bacteria can damage your teeth and cause decay.
4. Check for Gum Disease
Gum disease can be devastating to your oral health.
Your gums help keep your teeth healthy and stable, which is why maintaining them is so essential. Unfortunately, the bacteria involved in gum disease can also contribute to dangerous health conditions, like heart disease or diabetes. If it is caught early, it can be mitigated or even reversed.
The McAllen dentists at Heroes Dental are trained to spot even the smallest signs of gum disease and can spot deep pockets in your gums that can trap the bacteria that lead to decay or infections.
5. Head, Neck, and Lymph Node Exam
Dentists aren’t just trained in taking care of your mouth and teeth, they also are trained in issues with the whole head and neck. Part of a typical examination includes reviewing your head, neck, and lymph nodes for swelling or deformities. If a problem is found, your dentist will refer you out for further treatment.
Having this exam every six months can help catch problems early. If you skip out, those swollen lymph nodes may not be checked until the problem is much bigger.
The McAllen Dentists at Heroes Dental Are Here for the Whole Family
You and your family need to keep up with your dental health. Stop searching for another dentist in your area and head to Heroes Dental. We have plenty of convenient locations so you don’t need to go out of your way to find exceptional dental care.