Have you ever played a game of whack-a-mole? It’s where you use a hammer to bop some moles as they pop up through holes to score points. If you have poor oral health, this is the game that you’re playing with your teeth. When you try to solve one issue, another one inevitably pops up to take its place. Preventive dentistry is the solution.
If you want to learn how dental screenings and preventive measures can help your oral health, continue reading.
Dental Screenings Detect Issues Early
Many oral health issues begin subtly, often without noticeable symptoms. Dental screenings allow your dentist to identify these issues that may be hiding. They can take X-rays and do thorough examinations. If they do detect a dental problem, they can fix it quickly, preventing it from worsening into a more complex issue.
Stop the Spread of Tooth Decay
Cavities, the most common of dental woes, can be more easily managed when detected early. At the initial signs of decay, your dentist can perform a dental filling, a treatment that can easily preserve a tooth with little to no damage to the structure of your tooth.
If the decay is allowed to spread, it can eat into your teeth and trigger a more thorough response from your dentist including root canal treatment.
Defense Against Gum Disease
Gum disease, if left untreated, can lead to serious complications. The bacteria that cause gum disease can spread to other parts of your body. Some research from the National Institute on Aging even suggests that it’s linked to heart disease, and Alzheimer’s.
Early observation allows for prompt actions, often through professional cleanings and improved oral hygiene routines. Preventing the progression of gum disease is vital in protecting both oral health and overall wellness.
Prevent Oral Cancer
Oral cancer, when detected early, has a higher chance of successful treatment. Regular dental checkups include oral cancer screenings, enabling the identification of suspicious growths, lesions, cysts, or other abnormalities that may require further investigation.
Dental screenings and preventive dentistry are incredibly important to the health of your mouth and smile. As you can see, they could even save your life! If it’s been a while since you’ve gone to the dentist, give them a call and schedule an appointment.
About the Author
Dr. Stephen Dean is a highly skilled and professional dentist who enjoys forming lasting bonds with his patients. After obtaining his dental doctorate from the Medical University of South Carolina, Dr. Dean continued his education through prestigious institutions like the Dawson Academy and the Pankey Institute to ensure that his patients were getting the most up-to-date care available. To schedule an appointment at Dean Dental Care, call (770) 786-3915 or visit the website to discover other services.