Even if you are the most diligent brusher and flosser in the world, regular dental visits are still a necessary step to achieve optimal oral health. However, many people put their routine dental visits on hold for various reasons. For many, it is an effort to save some cash. The truth is that by seeing your dentist every six months, you can save money in the long run. Here’s what you should know!
Prevents Tooth Decay
Even if you are an excellent brusher and flosser, there will always be places that you accidentally miss. This is where your routine cleanings come into play. During your visit, your hygienist will clear away buildups of plaque and tartar that can eventually lead to decay. Your dentist will check for existing decay so it can be treated sooner rather than later. By opting for a filling now, you may be able to avoid the need for root canal therapy or an extraction in the future. Both of these treatments are more invasive and have a higher out-of-pocket cost, even if you have dental insurance.
Ward Off Gum Disease
Every time you have a checkup, your dentist examines your smile for signs of gum disease. This condition is extremely common. Approximately half of American adults over the age of 30 have gum disease at one severity or another. The good news is that this condition is preventable and can be reversed in its early stages. However, when left without treatment, gum disease can cause gum recession, loose teeth, and tooth loss. It has even been linked to other medical issues in the body – some being life-threatening – like heart disease and diabetes. By addressing gum disease with your dentist now and working on a solution, you can save money on future restorations and invasive gum disease treatments.
Reduce Staining
At the end of your dental cleaning, your hygienist polishes your teeth using a gritty material known as “prophylaxis paste.” This helps to break apart those surface stains that are caused by smoking, drinking, coffee, and aging. By having this done regularly, you are less likely to feel the need to invest in cosmetic dental treatment to reduce discoloration later on.
Early Detection of Oral Cancer
Your dentist checks for this deadly disease at the start of all of your checkups. When detected early on, it can often be easily treated, and patients can make a full recovery. However, since it progresses so quickly, missing a single dental checkup could mean invasive, costly treatments. Your dental visits not only save you money – they can save your life!
If it has been more than six months since your last dental checkups, it’s time to get back on track! By staying on top of your oral health with regular visits, you can get the most out of your insurance benefits and save money in the long run!
About the Practice
At Southwest Dental Arts, Dr. Helen Harless and Dr. Daniel Travelle work together to treat patients in the Boise community. With their combined experience and expertise, patients can get pretty much anything they need under one roof! If it has been a while since your last checkups, they would love to help you get back on track. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit their website or call (208) 322-5655.