It is an unfortunate fact that many people go for years without ever visiting a dentist, and that can result in some major oral health complications.
While everyone will most likely run into at least a few oral health problems over the years, there are some simple steps that you can take to protect your teeth and gums. In addition to brushing and flossing at home, you should also schedule regular visits with a dentist in Riverside CA. During those visits, your dentist will be able to carry out a variety of preventative services that will reduce your risk of some of the most common oral health complications.
Gum Disease
Many people are surprised to hear that nearly half the adult population has some form of gum disease. While the initial stages of gum disease typically aren’t dangerous, this condition could eventually result in permanent damage. Some studies are even revealing that long-term gum disease might be linked to Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
Daily brushing and flossing will be your first line of defense against this condition, but you should also schedule regular general dentistry appointments. Your dentist in Riverside CA should be able to catch and treat gum disease before it becomes a serious health issue.
Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is another pervasive problem that almost everyone will have to deal with at some point over the years. This condition occurs when debris on the outside of the teeth isn’t regularly removed. Over time, that debris is going to feed germs that attack the enamel on your teeth, and that can result in tooth decay.
In its earliest stages, tooth decay is typically treated with fillings after the damaged enamel has been removed. As the condition progresses, it could eventually attack the interior pulp of the tooth. That can lead to severe pain around the tooth, discoloration, or a completely dead tooth that must be removed.
Stained Teeth
No matter what steps you take to keep your smile bright and beautiful, you will probably deal with at least a few stained or dingy teeth over the years. Just like these other oral health problems, this issue can usually be delayed or avoided entirely with the proper oral hygiene habits and regular visits to the dentist.
If you have recently looked in the mirror and realized that your teeth are no longer as white as you would like them to be, then it might be time to schedule an appointment with your dentist for a professional whitening treatment. That is one of the most popular general dentistry services, and it can brighten your smile by multiple shades during a single treatment.
When to Schedule an Appointment
While everyone has slightly different needs, the vast majority of patients should be scheduling a dental checkup at least once a year. Those quick appointments will give your dentist the opportunity to catch some of these oral health issues before they become major problems.
You can also speak with your dentist about any cosmetic issues that you would like to address. With modern cosmetic treatments, you will be able to straighten your teeth, remove stains, and create a world-class smile that you can be proud to show off for years to come.
If the dentist is your biggest fear that prevents you from a regular dental checkup, read this article.