How Your Dentist Can Help Prevent Periodontal Disease
WebMD recommends that people visit for regular checkups twice a year. This is especially true for children, who need to establish good dental hygiene early. Fortunately, almost two-thirds of parents with children aged under 18 said that their children visited the dentist every six months, according to the American Dental Association. However, only about one in five said they visit once per year, and a scant 4.4% said they visit every two to three years. With these statistics in mind, let's review why it's important to see a trusted dentist and how they can help prevent periodontal disease.
Why Do Patients Visit the Dentist?
One of the most common reasons for dentist appointments among children is routine cleanings. Other common reasons include toothaches, irritated gums, and fillings. But a dentist appointment is important for more than just keeping teeth clean and healthy. Regular visits to the dentist can also help prevent gum disease, also known as periodontal disease.
What's Periodontal Disease and How Can a Dentist Help?
Described as an inflammation of the gums that can lead to tooth loss, periodontal disease is a common issue that dentists see. Gum disease is caused by plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. Plaque can harden into tartar, which is much harder to remove. If tartar isn't removed, it can irritate the gums and cause them to become inflamed.
While a regular checkup at the dentist usually includes a cleaning and a dental exam, the dentist will also clean plaque and tartar from the teeth and check for signs of gum disease. They may also take x-rays to check for problems below the gum line. Dentists can also spot early signs of gum disease and provide treatment to prevent it from progressing. If you have gum disease, the dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings, special mouth rinses, or medication. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to treat the damage caused by gum disease.
If you're due for a dentist appointment, or if you think you may have gum disease, be sure to visit a dentist as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment are the keys to preventing periodontal disease and keeping your smile healthy and bright. If you want to keep your teeth and gums healthy, be sure to make a dentist appointment with Family Dental Care. We look forward to helping you achieve a beautiful smile!
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