How Many Times Should You See Your Dentist Each Year?

As the year draws to a close, you can find yourself busy with holiday activities. However, you should not feel as though you have no time to take care of yourself, particularly when it comes to your smile. Unless your dentist has determined that you would be better served by a different schedule, you should have a checkup around every six months. If you are falling behind on this, you can be vulnerable to problems caused by accumulating plaque and tartar. You can also allow issues with your periodontal health, or even tooth decay, to go untreated. Our Prairie Village, KS dental office offers important preventive care at every routine dental appointment. By staying consistent with these visits, you can make sure your smile stays in good shape!

The Importance Of Semiannual Dental Exams

If you want to prevent dental problems, and limit the severity of any problems that do occur, you should be consistent with your six month dental exams. One reason to stay consistent is that you effectively protect yourself against tartar buildup. When tartar deposits form, they will remain in place to attack teeth and gum tissues until your next expert teeth cleaning. Tartar deposits can be prevented, but they will be a persistent threat once they form because they cannot be removed with brushing and flossing alone. Your dental exams are also important because when issues like decay or gingivitis affect you, your dentist can identify them and respond before they have a chance to worsen.

Scheduling Restorative Dental Work (When It’s Needed)

If your dentist spots a cavity, or recognizes signs of poor periodontal health, you can arrange to undergo the appropriate restorative dental care. A cavity that is caught in time can be restored with the removal of decaying enamel, and the placement of a filling. If the problem has not been addressed in a timely fashion, you may need a dental crown put in place.

In some cases, patients need extra help because of their periodontal health, not because of a cavity. If you show signs of gingivitis, your dentist can perform an ultrasonic scaling to remove bacteria beneath your gum line. Clearing away harmful agents in this way can allow your gums to become healthy again, and protect you from permanent problems.

Combining In-Office Care With Smart Daily Care

Consistent care at home is important even if you are also enjoying consistent care at your dentist’s office. Make sure you are brushing your teeth at least two times a day, and addressing hard-to-reach spaces between teeth by flossing. You should also be smart about your diet – limiting how much sugar you eat can mean exposing yourself to fewer smile threats, and keeping your cavity risk controlled.

Set Up Your Next Dental Visit With Dr. Browne!

At our Prairie Village, KS dental practice, patients can count on expert care from Dr. Browne! If you have not kept up with your semiannual dental appointment schedule, it is important to return to the habit as soon as possible to avoid potential oral health issues. To learn more, or to schedule an appointment, contact our office today at (913) 901-8585.