Fall is around the corner, and if you haven’t
scheduled dental checkups with the family, it’s time to make those
appointments.
School and extracurricular activities can get
in the way of dental appointments, and before you know it, the holidays will be
here.
Neglecting dental checkups can cause all
sorts of problems even if you and your family are meticulous about oral
hygiene. Below are just a few of the issues that can occur if you skip those regular
dental checkups.
Tooth Decay
You and your family may be proud of your twice-daily
brushing habits, but unless you throw dental appointments into the mix, you
could be asking for cavities. Your dentist explains that professional cleanings
should be conducted during your regular dental checkups to remove the sticky
plaque and tartar. Bacteria, plaque, and acid can erode the enamel on your
teeth making you more susceptible to tooth decay and cavities.
Gum Disease
Neglecting much needed dental appointments
can cause gum disease. You and your family may floss every day, but you still
need checkups for professional dental cleanings. Gingivitis, the first stage of
gum disease, is reversible, but only if you catch it in time. Unfortunately,
some patients are not even aware that they have gum disease until it progresses
to the more serious periodontal disease. Periodontal disease occurs when
pockets form between your teeth and gums. Those pockets are full of plaque and
tartar that will eat away your gums. If you have swollen, red, or bleeding
gums, see your dentist as quickly as possible.
Other Health Issues
Poor oral hygiene has been linked to several
other health problems including Alzheimer’s disease, stroke and congenital
heart failure and although studies are still being conducted it appears that
bacteria enters the blood stream through the gums. People who have hardening of
the arteries have a higher percentage of periodontal disease as do people who
suffer from diabetes.
If you and your family have been neglecting
your dental appointments, schedule one today. Your health really does depend on
it.
