One of the advantages of scheduling routine checkups is that your dentist can spot the onset of an oral health issue, even if it has not started to cause symptoms. Early detection can lead to less invasive treatments, and can stop a problem before it becomes painful. However, if you do not make regular visits to your dentist, and only schedule an appointment to treat ongoing discomfort, you could require a more involved remedy. For serious issues, like the onset of oral cancer, early detection can significantly affect your treatment.
Ignoring A Toothache
If you experience pain in a tooth, or if it becomes especially sensitive to heat and cold, you should see your dentist for treatment. That toothache could mean that a cavity has infected the soft nerve tissue in your tooth, which will require a root canal treatment. In a root canal treatment, your dentist must remove the infection to protect the remaining tooth. Because much of the tooth can be lost in this treatment, you will likely need a dental crown to restore that tooth. If you delay visiting your dentist for too long, the cavity can damage the tooth to the point that it is irreparable, and the infection can spread to other teeth.
Screening For Oral Cancer
Oral cancer is a potentially fatal disease that strikes countless Americans every year. People who regularly smoke, or drink heavily, face a higher risk of developing oral cancer, but people who avoid these habits should still be vigilant. If you notice changes to your mouth or gums, like rough patches, persistent sores, or other odd developments, you should see your dentist. Your dentist can also inspect for signs of oral cancer when you visit for a routine checkup.
ABOUT YOUR PRAIRIE VILLAGE, KS DENTIST:
With decades of professional dental care experience, native of Kansas City, Robert M Browne, DDS is proud to provide general, cosmetic, restorative, and prosthetic care to patients from Prairie Village and surrounding communities. To learn more or to schedule a visit with Dr. Browne, contact our office today at (913) 901-8585.
