Anyone who wants to maintain excellent oral health first needs to find a dentist who is experienced and trustworthy. Establishing regular dental maintenance can help prevent the need for more procedures down the road. Patients already established with a dentist can schedule appointments for routine dental procedures more quickly and easily. Although some people choose to visit a dentist only when a problem is suspected, routine dental care can mean the difference between keeping natural teeth for life and having chronic dental concerns.
Why is it important to find a dentist for routine care?
Waiting for a dental emergency to become established as a patient is a common mistake. Not only can routine dental care help prevent dental emergencies, but it can also help patients learn strategies for maintaining lifelong oral health and hygiene at home.
Dental visits are a part of oral hygiene maintenance
Brushing and flossing twice a day at home is integral to teeth and gum health. Dentists teach patients proper techniques for at-home care, including correct brushing angles and pressure and proper flossing procedure. Even when patients perform excellent home dental care, plaque still builds up over time. It is important for everyone to visit the dentist twice a year to remove excess tartar and plaque. During routine dental visits, dentists examine the teeth and gums for signs of damage or illness. Through regular cleanings and examinations, many patients can head off dental issues before they arise.
Dentists diagnose and treat problems before they worsen
In addition to cleaning, flossing, and polishing the teeth during routine visits, dentists also look for signs of decay or gum disease. If a patient has a cavity, it can be removed and filled before the decay reaches the root of the tooth. If left too long, the decay can damage the tooth pulp, which typically requires more intervention, such as a root canal. Routine visits also typically involve annual X-rays, which give dentists a better look at the health of the teeth.
Dentists care for more than just teeth and gums
Although it is common knowledge that dentists diagnose and treat diseases and complications of the teeth and gums, they also check for a number of other conditions that affect a patient's overall health. During routine exams, dental professionals look for any issues concerning the soft tissues, muscles, and glands of the head, neck, throat, and tongue. Any type of abnormality is noted, and a more thorough investigation may be scheduled.
- Discoloration
- Lumps or swollen areas
- Ulcers
- Unusual textures
- Bleeding
- Evidence of nerve conditions
Conclusion
When patients find a dentist for routine dental care, it is important to select a practice with the potential for a long-term, trusting relationship. Dentists who see patients continually over time can head off some of the oral health problems that can necessitate more intervention. Regular dental care maintenance is an essential part of developing habits that can make natural teeth last a lifetime. Since oral health also affects overall health, routine dental care should be a health priority for all individuals.
Request an appointment or call Tysons Corner Advanced Dental Center at 703-272-5007 for an appointment in our Vienna office.
Related Posts
Is it possible to find a dentist in a pinch when out of state or away on business? Imagine this scenario: You have flown 300 miles away for a business trip and now there is an aching molar or broken crown to handle along with work obligations! Before spiraling into a panic, understand that there…
According to Today's RDH, the first dental hygiene program began in 1913. Now, most patients look to find a dentist who offers preventive cleanings, also known as prophylactic cleanings. The popularity of this service is due to its effectiveness in preventing gum disease and detecting diseases in the early stages. With an overall shift toward…
Maintaining good overall health includes taking care of the teeth, but many people may find it difficult to find a dentist whose office hours and available services match a busy lifestyle. This is a common problem; however, those who work long hours, care for children full time, and have many daily commitments can still take…