The fact that more than a hundred million Americans do not visit a dentist proves that there is lack of information regarding the link between oral and overall health. It also means that a third of the population do not know the risks involved in skipping a dental exam.
Dental exams are crucial for everyone, even to those who do not have immediate concerns. Why have a dental exam? Here are seven reasons.
1. To Maintain Oral Health
Oral health is not just about teeth and gums. It is about the overall health of your mouth, that your dentist tracks to prevent diseases and bad breath. In collaboration with a hygienist, your dentist will ensure that your oral hygiene is always above target.
2. To Prevent Tooth Decay and Gum Disease
Regular dental exams can help you avoid tooth decay and gum disease since the progression only pushes through after the enamel has already been damaged. This is usually a long process, so your dentist still has time to do something about it.
3. To Diagnose Dreaded Diseases Before They Worsen
Twenty-four Americans die from oral cancer every day, according to the Oral Cancer Foundation. That is translated to 8,760 deaths a year. With a thorough oral, neck, and head exam, all of which a dentist provides, oral cancer can be diagnosed at the earliest stage. Other dreaded diseases that can be diagnosed by your dentist are Hodgkinâs disease, non-Hodgkinâs lymphoma, thyroid diseases, and other forms of cancer that develop in the surrounding parts.
4. To Have the Best Smile
Dentists in Annapolis, MD can diagnose through a dental exam if your teeth are shifting, or demineralization is happening down to the roots. You can be referred to an orthodontist or periodontist, depending on the treatment plan designed.5. To Prevent Blood Infection
Periodontal or gum diseases are directly linked to blood infection. Not having the right treatment based on a thorough dental exam can lead to more serious conditions, such as septicemia.
6. To Lower the Risk of Stroke and Heart Attack
Although the American Heart Association has yet to make a concrete statement about the link of heart and gum diseases, there are strings of evidences that tie the two health conditions together. The link has never been ruled out by the medical community despite the disagreement and ongoing debates, so until no one is guaranteed safe, you better check with your dentist regularly.
7. To Avoid Spending More on Dental Procedures in the Future
The easiest way to prevent any big expenses on dental procedures is to ensure that no serious dental problem arises. This also goes to all health conditions that may require you to spend on professional fees, medicines, and hospital confinement.