Family Dentistry |2 min read

Three Reasons to Visit Your Dentist Even if You Think Your Smile is Healthy

Do you avoid visiting your dentist in Seattle regularly because of rationalizing, “Why should I get a check-up and cleaning if my teeth and gums don’t hurt?” While it is true that professional dental assistance is undeniably vital when you’re experiencing issues with your oral health, it is by no means the only time you should contact your dentist. Consider three reasons why you should get into the habit of regularly scheduled dental appointments, no matter what state you think your oral health is in.

1. Oral Cancer — The Oral Cancer Foundation reports that close to 42,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral or pharyngeal cancer this year, and just over half will still be alive in five years. It states that “historically the death rate associated with this cancer is particularly high not because it is hard to discover or diagnose, but due to the cancer being routinely discovered late in its development.” Each time you visit our dental office, we can perform a high tech, non-invasive oral cancer screening to permit the diagnosis of oral cancer in its earliest of stages. Regular dental visits can actually help save your life.

2. Undetected Oral Health Issues — Even though you may not experience significant pain, or show visible signs of oral health issues, this doesn’t automatically mean that your teeth and gums are problem-free. In fact, the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) states that 23% of adults 20 to 64 have untreated decay. Others can have developed gum disease and not even know it. As with oral cancer, if tartar, tooth decay, and gum disease remain untreated, they can develop into far more serious oral health concerns. Regular professional cleanings and check-ups help keep these oral health enemies in check by discovering them before you may even be aware of them.

3. Long-lasting Benefits — An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Diligent brushing, flossing, and regularly scheduled dental check-ups go a long way in achieving a healthy home for your smile. These preventive steps can save you from the unnecessary physical and emotional toll associated with advanced oral health problems, as well as save you precious time and money. It’s vital to take your oral health seriously. Don’t wait until you’re in pain before you schedule your next dental visit. Take preventative action and contact us today. We take pride in helping patients like you achieve a sparkling, healthy-looking smile that can last a lifetime.

Leave a comment below. Do you think most Americans follow the American Dental Association’s guideline of visiting the dentist twice a year?

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