A dental checkup is recommended every six months for preventative care. This video goes over what a dental service checks for during a visit. The main benefit of a biannual checkup is to catch potential problems before they wreak havoc. For example, if cavities are detected early, they can be filled, saving an individual from having a root canal procedure or worse.
Routine cleaning also prevents the buildup of tartar/calculus, which can lead to various oral diseases. Tartar cannot be removed through brushing or flossing; it requires professional cleaning.
The dental service will also inspect a patient’s mouth for signs of gum disease or cancer of the tongue, throat, and neck. For periodontitis, the dentist uses a special probe to check the depth of the gum pockets, which should be shallow, not deep. They will also check for signs of inflammation, redness, or changes in tissue that may indicate cancer. Other diagnostic methods, such as X-Ray, reveal unseen ailments such as impacted teeth, bone decay, or tumors. An individual with a proper home tooth care regime and regular dental checkups can expect to stave off cavities, tooth loss, bad breath, and other oral problems.
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