You’ve heard that you should see the dentist every six months or so, but why is that?

There are multiple reasons why regular dental checkups are important—for both your oral health and your overall health. Read on as our Cottonwood Dental team offers some perspective.

We Can Clean Where You Can’t

While we all like to think we’re doing a great job of taking care of our teeth at home, no matter how well you brush and floss, you’re still missing some plaque.

That’s why it’s important to visit the dentist regularly for cleanings. During a cleaning at the dentist, a dentist or dental hygienist will clean all surfaces of your teeth, including places that are hard (or impossible) to reach on your own.

Removing plaque like this is important since plaque built up over time can damage your teeth and gums.

We’ll Take a Look at Your Gums

You probably don’t look at your gums very often, even if you’re a regular brusher and flosser. They’re just a part of the body that we tend to ignore unless something hurts.

During your dental exam, we will take a close look at your gums, looking for signs of gum disease. We’re looking to make sure your gums feel firm, and that they are not swollen or receding.

We Look for Signs of Bigger Health Issues

Believe it or not, your teeth and gums can provide us with insight into your overall health. During a regular dental checkup, we look for potential signs of oral cancer.

But we’re also keeping an eye out for signs of other health issues that may present themselves in your neck, head, and jaw. Many chronic diseases, such as arthritis and diabetes, can exhibit themselves in the mouth before showing up elsewhere.

Is it time for your dental checkup? Get in touch today to schedule an appointment!

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