It’s that time of year again: 6 months since your last dentist appointment. You know that you should schedule another cleaning, and yet, you hesitate.
No one really wants to take a seat in the dentist’s chair, open their mouths wide, and have their teeth looked at. Whether it’s a fear of needles holding you back, or a limited budget for dental expenses, your dental care may have fallen to the wayside.
Even if you’ve got a jam-packed schedule, it’s important to make time for a cleaning twice a year. We’re here to tell you why you should put your oral health first:
Only Dentists Can Remove Calculus (Tartar)
Every time you brush your teeth, the bristles remove plaque. But there’s one thing they can’t do: remove calculus. When plaque builds up on the teeth, it hardens into calculus (or tartar), a substance that discolours teeth, damages enamel, and causes bad breath.
This deposit is especially hard, and only the tools at a dentist’s office can remove it without damaging the tooth underneath.
Prevent Major Issues
We all get cavities now and again—it’s part of life! It might be tempting to ignore a toothache when you notice one. If your teeth are sensitive to temperatures, sore when you chew, or have visible holes, then you most likely have a cavity.
Preventative dentistry is the best way to preserve the health of your teeth and save on major expenses. It’s a lot less expensive to get a filling than need to have a root canal done or require a dental implant! Keep cavities and gum disease at bay by getting your teeth cleaned regularly.
Cancer Screenings
Oral cancer is a disease that develops rapidly, and sometimes without warning. In 2020, it was estimated that 1500 Canadians died from oral cancer. Risk factors include using tobacco, drinking alcohol, and contracting HPV. Like all kinds of cancer, outcomes and survival rates are higher when the issue is detected early.
During each cleaning, your dentist will check for any signs of oral cancer. This ensures that if any issues arise, you can begin treatment as soon as possible.
Aside from cancer, poor oral health can lead to other issues. These include cardiovascular disease, increased risk of infections, and even infertility! Regular cleanings will help you prevent health issues like these from developing.
Your Teeth Will Look (and Work) Great!
You can’t beat the smooth feeling of freshly cleaned teeth. They gleam with a stain-free shine. Only a dentist can clean your teeth this thoroughly. A smile that’s free from discolouration looks youthful and radiant.
Aside from the aesthetic benefits, there’s the bonus of a pain-free mouth. No more aches when you drink a hot/cold beverage or bite down on hard food. Your teeth are important tools that you’ll rely on throughout your lifetime. Taking regular care of them will keep them strong for the years ahead of you.
When you consider all these benefits, you might feel excited to schedule your next dental appointment in Winnipeg.
Okay, maybe not—but you certainly won’t dread it as much. The next time you’re due for a dental cleaning or a dental check-up, give us a call at WestSide Dental Group! Our friendly Winnipeg dentists will be happy to take care of any dental issues.
