Long-Term Effects of Missing Your Biannual Dental Exam

Dental cleanings and oral health assessments are essential for your oral and overall health. Here are the consequences of skipping your biannual dental checkup, as well as why regular dental cleanings and assessments are beneficial to your health. Dr. David Powell and All Care Dentistry will assist you in determining what is best for you.

1. Plaque Buildup 

When you skip a professional hygiene cleaning, plaque accumulates in difficult-to-reach areas and hardens into tartar. Tartar is difficult to remove at home, even with brushing, flossing, and antiseptic mouthwash. And when tartar has formed, it can be removed only by a dental professional.

2. Discoloration of Teeth

Every six months, your dental hygienist cleans and polishes your teeth, removing plaque, tartar, and surface stains. Missing a cleaning can leave you with a dull smile and lower self-esteem. 

3. Bad Breath

Plaque harbors bacteria and can cause bad breath, particularly if you have gum disease. Dry mouth, smoking and tobacco use, kidney and liver disease, or a throat or respiratory infection can cause bad breath. Regular dental examinations can help determine the source of your bad breath and the required treatment.

4. Periodontal Disease and Tooth Loss

Skipping a dental appointment jeopardizes your gum health and increases your risk of gingivitis and periodontal disease. Gum disease is characterized by red, swollen, tender, and bleeding gums. You may experience chewing discomfort, gum recession, chronic bad breath, and bone and tooth loss as the gum disease worsens.

5. Cavities

Cavities are easily treated with regular dental visits. When you miss an appointment, bacteria, plaque, and tartar buildup could eat away at your tooth enamel, causing holes in your teeth. Untreated cavities may necessitate a root canal, dental crown, or extraction.

6. Oral Cancer 

Oral cancer is a disease that can affect your tongue, lips, mouth roof and floor, cheeks, throat, and sinuses. Your dentist will screen you for oral cancer during your routine dental exam to detect and treat oral cancer in its early stages. Early detection increases the likelihood of a successful treatment outcome.

Make an appointment for your dental checkup today. If it has been more than six months since your last dental checkup, call us at All Care Dentistry today at (801) 266-1414 to schedule your dental cleaning and evaluation, or come to 6065 S Fashion Blvd # 275, Salt Lake City, UT 84107. For more information, please contact us at toothdoctor35@yahoo.com.