According to official government data, almost half of the UK population do not regularly visit their dentist. This is despite the fact that over 50% of us have poor dental health. Even if your teeth look and feel completely healthy – with no visible plaque, and no tooth pain – it might not be the case under the surface. A qualified dentist, equipped with the knowledge, experience, and a professional toolkit is able to examine your teeth and gums properly, to ensure that any problems are identified and treated right away, avoiding complications later on.
To ensure you have healthy teeth, it is vital to have regular dental health check-ups, and there are many benefits to having a full set of healthy teeth. When your teeth are in a healthy condition, you will feel and look better. Having a good smile boosts self-confidence, which in turn can improve many areas of your life. Not only will you look good, but you will also be able to enjoy meals without experiencing the pain that is caused by tooth decay. Having regular check-ups will dramatically increase the likelihood of your retaining your teeth into your old age, avoiding the need for dentures.
Your dental check-up might include a head and neck examination – this is to screen for cancers; early signs and symptoms of certain cancers usually show up in thyroid glands and lymph nodes. The inside of your mouth will be checked for swelling, sores, and redness, and the dentist, or dental hygienist, will also check your jaw alignment. They will then examine the inside of your mouth, including checking the health of your tongue and gums. The condition of your gums is a very important indicator of the state of your general dental health, and symptoms such as bleeding can be signs of gum disease which, if not treated early, can deteriorate quickly and lead to tooth loss. If your dentist deems it necessary, you might also have an x-ray to reveal the roots below the gum line.
Lastly, after carrying out tooth scaling and tooth polishing to remove any tartar build-up, your dentist, or dental hygienist, will discuss with you your brushing, eating, drinking, and smoking habits, and also advise you of the results of the examination, letting you know what treatment, if any, is needed (such as any cavities that might need filling). They will also be able to give advice on the best way to look after your teeth and will advise you when next to visit them.
No one has to suffer from unsightly, painful, unhealthy teeth. As well as maintaining a healthy diet, brushing regularly, and mouth wash after eating or drinking food, it is absolutely necessary to have your teeth checked regularly by a dentist. And although some people can be nervous about going to the dentist, there is really no need. In fact, the danger lies in not having your teeth checked. Advancements in modern dentistry mean that you can enjoy having healthy teeth and gums for the rest of your life.
