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The pandemic, along with dental anxiety, has caused many patients to skip routine dental appointments, especially when no immediate dental issues are present. However, neglecting dental cleanings can seriously compromise both your oral health and lead to unhealthy teeth, affecting your overall well-being.
Gum Disease and Its Widespread Impact
Skipping routine cleanings increases your risk of gum disease, a condition linked to more than just unhealthy teeth. Gum disease has been connected to rheumatoid arthritis, pneumonia, and even Alzheimer’s disease. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss, requiring more invasive treatments like dental implants or root canals.
Tooth Decay and Bacterial Infections
The main culprit behind dental problems is oral bacteria, which forms as soon as you consume food or drinks other than water. While brushing and flossing are essential daily habits, they alone can’t reach every surface in your mouth. Professional dental cleanings at Lockwood Family Dental play a critical role in removing hardened plaque (tartar) that you can’t clean at home, protecting your teeth from cavities and infections.
Bruxism and Self-Confidence Issues
Stress-related conditions like bruxism (teeth grinding) can worsen when routine care is neglected. This bad habit not only damages teeth but also contributes to unhealthy teeth, which can negatively impact your self-confidence.
Hidden Issues Identified During Dental Exams
Biannual dental exams allow our skilled team at Lockwood Family Dental to detect and treat problems early, such as cracked teeth, cavities, or jaw abnormalities. These issues, if left unaddressed, can worsen over time, leading to more pain and costly treatments.
The Risk of Abscesses and Tooth Fractures
Cavities and weakened enamel can lead to painful abscesses and even fractures. Regular cleanings and checkups help prevent these problems from escalating. A cracked tooth can quickly become more serious if ignored, requiring more invasive and expensive procedures.
Bad Breath (Halitosis)
Oral bacteria, if not managed with proper dental cleanings, can cause bad breath (halitosis) and contribute to unhealthy teeth. This can be unpleasant and embarrassing in social interactions, especially since brushing alone may not remove all the bacteria responsible.
Diabetes and Heart Health Risks
Neglecting dental cleanings can also have far-reaching effects on your overall health. Gum disease is associated with a higher risk of diabetes complications and heart conditions. Maintaining regular cleanings at Lockwood Family Dental helps protect your oral health and lowers your risk of these serious conditions.
What Happens During Your Biannual Dental Checkups?
When you come in for your routine dental cleaning and exam at Lockwood Family Dental, here’s what you can expect:
- Dental X-rays if necessary
- Oral cancer screening
- Removal of sticky plaque and tartar
- Tooth polishing to remove stains
- Screening for tooth decay and gum disease
- Examining teeth for cracks, chips, or cavities
- Checking your jaw and bite for abnormalities
- Ensuring that any restorations are still in good condition
- Creating a treatment plan for any current issues
- Reviewing your at-home care and recommending helpful products
Daily Oral Hygiene: Your Best Defense
Between cleanings, the best way to protect your teeth is by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using an antibacterial mouthwash. Drinking water regularly and eating a balanced diet can also help prevent unhealthy teeth and gum disease from taking hold.
At Lockwood Family Dental, we understand that many patients have delayed cleanings this past year. We’re here to help you get back on track without judgment! Schedule your dental cleaning and exam, and let us help restore your oral health and confidence.
