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The Importance of Regular Dental Visits

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The Importance of Regular Dental Visits

Not sure the last time you visited the dentist? It might be time you did!Dental Visits

Visiting the dentist is something everyone needs to do, regardless of how healthy or wonderful your teeth and gums look and feel. After all, things like cavities and gum disease can stay silent while still wreaking havoc on teeth, so the only way you’ll even know you have an issue is if you visit our Decatur, IL, dentist Dr. Carol Cunningham for routine care. Sure, we know life gets hectic but making a little bit of time twice a year (every six months) for dental cleanings and exams could save you time and money in the future.

What happens during my six-month dental checkup?

There are two main components to this visit: the checkup and the cleaning (sometimes referred to as prophylaxis). During the checkup, our Decatur, IL, general dentist will examine your teeth and gums and check for any cavities, tartar and plaque buildup, as well as warning signs of gum disease.

An oral cancer screening is also performed during your checkups. These screenings only take a minute and you may not even know it’s happening. The only thing we do is look at the throat, soft tissue, gums and tongue to check for growths, lesions, red or white patches, or other signs that oral cancer may be present.

The cleaning is also a crucial part of your checkup. After all, even the most talented and thorough brushers and flossers miss areas, and it’s our job to remove any plaque and tartar buildup left behind. Plus, once plaque hardens into tartar it’s impossible for you to remove tartar with your at-home toothbrush. The only way is through a professional dental cleaning.

Why are these checkups important?

Everyone should visit their dentist at least every six months (you may need to come in more regularly if you are a smoker, are pregnant or have active gum disease) for routine checkups and care. After all, these visits are meant to prevent problems from occurring rather than just treating the problem once it happens.

It’s never too late to get your oral health and dental care back on track and our dental team here at the Gentle Art of Dentistry is here to help. We want to make the dental experience in Decatur, IL, a pleasant one for all of our patients. Our gentle, caring touch will make your dental visits a breeze.