Over 5 decades ago, the oral examination of people willing to join the military revealed that Americans' teeth were generally not in good shape.
Only few knew the importance of taking regular care of their teeth. This may also be a result of the fact that there were no set standards or guidelines for people to follow on how frequently they must visit a dentist. Likewise, most of the dentists were interested in treating the dental issues, rather than preventing them.
Consequently, dental and health institutions came up with the idea of establishing guiding principles for preventive dentistry. They concluded that people should see a dentist at least twice a year for regular checkups and dental cleaning as it would prevent the development of cavities
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The frequency will also be based on your risk factors for tooth loss and periodontal disease. For instance, if you have good oral hygiene and the regular checkups show no signs of concern, then you may only need to see a dentist twice a year.
However, if you have tartar or cavities, then you may need to see a dentist more than twice a year. Moreover, your health insurance may also have an effect on the regularity of your dental appointments.
There are certain people with varying conditions who anyway need to see a dentist more often. Some of these people include:
1. Pregnant women. This is because during pregnancy, the hormonal changes can inflame the gums and generate other problems.
2. Smokers. Consumption of tobacco can elevate the chances of periodontitis and oral cancer.
3. Cancer patients. These people are more prone to conditions such as dry mouth and oral infection.
4. Diabetic patients. People suffering from diabetes are at a higher risk of having gum diseases and other oral problems.
5. Heart patients. Heart patients must see dentists to get dental cleanings regular to lessen their chances of heart
Dental check-ups are very important and are needed to maintain good oral health. Visiting your dentist routinely and not missing any appointments is essential to identify problems early, when they are easy to treat or rather prevent them from occurring. According to NHS, 2015, “During a check-up, your teeth are examined by the dentist and you are asked about your general health and any problems with your teeth, mouth or gums since your last visit.” You are also “given advice on smoking, alcohol use, diet and teeth cleaning habits” The date of your next check-up is then set. This could range from 3 months to 2 years depending on the state of your teeth. The higher the risk of dental problems, the less time you can wait till
If a medical condition runs in your family, then you need to let your dentist know about this. Having a family history of a certain condition can put you at risk for it. Additionally, if dental problems run in your family, then you are at a greater risk for developing them.
5. Oral health , it is very important to address as well because ignoring oral health can lead to gum diseases.
Many low income areas have dental therapists as part of their local dental team. Many people in these areas have never been to a dentist or do not go every six months as recommended this poses many other health problems. There has been case studies and data showing that in these areas dental health
“The impact of unmet oral health care needs is magnified by the well-established connection between oral health and overall health” (Fineberg, H. 2011, p. ix). Oral health status is linked with general health, as evidenced by the association between poor oral health and chronic diseases, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and respiratory disease. Poor oral hygiene can also lead to other health issues such as, oral facial pain and digestive problems. “The silent epidemic of oral diseases disproportionately affects disadvantaged communities,
However, as people age and responsibilities take up more time and money, sometimes we push personal, dental care to the back burner. It can sit back there for a long time before one or more teeth begin to demands our attention.
A 1991 study by Hoad‐Reddick[h] showed that simple questionnaires carried out by non-dental professionals (e.g. regular care-home staff) could highlight dental care needs. If regular dental check-ups were carried out in these institutions, or if staff looked into the oral health needs of the elderly people in these institutions, the need for preventative measures and treatment could be highlighted much sooner.
|The American Dental Association recommends that adults brush their teeth two times a day. Research has shown that infections in the mouth may |
These people may make excuses as to why they choose not to get these cleanings. Some say that they are not able to afford paying for a professional Dental Hygienist, it’s a waste of time, or they claim they take great care of their teeth at home so the every six month appointment would be pointless. Whatever the excuse may be, I would have to disagree. The lack of proper oral hygiene can over time cause infections and may even cause some bone loss that can lead to losing teeth. “...One cannot be healthy with an unhealthy mouth any more than one can be healthy with an infected foot.” Dr. Richard H. Price states in the article “Oral Hygiene and Overall Health”. While working at a dental office that deals mainly with the gums and bone density in the mouth, I have seen many cases where the patients have lost teeth due to careless oral hygiene. One patient in particular had never had any kind of professional dental help. This patient had some severe bone loss as well as gum recession on seven teeth, and also a great amount of tooth mobility because of the bone loss. The doctor continued by telling the patient how over the years that his oral health problem had occurred and how the regular cleanings could have prevented such problems. The plaque that
Brushing: Most dentists advise brushing a minimum of twice daily. You should also floss at least daily to remove anything that could be lodged between the teeth.
Dental care is important for a lifelong happy smile. Let us help you and your family get the care you need to feel great, look your best, and smile confidently for many years to come.
If a great smile isn't a big enough of an incentive to go visit the dentist soon, these five reasons should be:
7. Assumptions were made that the gum disease resulted from poor dental at home care and from delayed treatment
You may dread the idea of going to the dentist every six months to have your teeth cleaned. You may be so busy with work and kids that going to the dentist is the last thing you want to do. You may find it easier to fit dental cleanings into your schedule when you realize how important they are to your health. Brushing and flossing are not enough to keep your mouth healthy. These are some important reasons to keep your dental appointments and have your teeth cleaned on schedule.
Although many Americans have good oral hygiene due to fluoride and making everyday good decisions, others do not have any access at all to oral health care. Over the years, dentists have been trying to demonstrate the importance of oral care. (“Access to Dental Care”) From commercials to campaigns, dentists will continue to demonstrate to their patients as well as to the people who don't have insurance the importance of oral health care. They will teach them preventative care and some techniques on how to prevent from getting any diseases.