Four Reasons to Get Regular Dental Checkups

Going to the dentist is one of those things that are easy to put off unless you have a toothache or some other oral problem that you cannot ignore. However, you should get checkups every six months or so for the following reasons:

• To keep your breath fresh. Bad breath is caused by bacteria and small amounts of decaying food lodged somewhere in the mouth. Having regular checkups and cleanings helps you to maintain a cleaner mouth and avoid halitosis, also known as chronic bad breath.
• To whiten your smile. Coffee, tea, wine and other everyday things tend to stain teeth, and regular brushing is not always enough to remove the discoloration. Professional cleaning can help prevent your teeth from yellowing.
• To prevent gum disease. Gingivitis, or inflammation of the gums, can lead to periodontal gum disease, or periodontitis, if not treated. Periodontitis is a more advanced form of gum disease that can lead to the breakdown of the gums and bones that support the teeth.
• To help maintain overall health. There is some evidence that gum disease puts a person at higher risk for health problems such as strokes and heart attacks. The best way to prevent gum disease is to brush and floss regularly and to visit the dentist for professional cleanings twice per year.

Keeping your teeth clean is a simple way to improve your general health and appearance. Regular dental checkups are the best means of catching and treating problems early. Speak to the experienced dentists at Bright Smile Family Dentistry to schedule a dental exam today.