Why Oral Health Symptoms Shouldn’t Be Ignored

Ignoring changes in your dental and oral health can lead to the development of serious conditions that require aggressive, invasive, and costly treatments. When potential problems are detected and treated early on, you increase the likelihood of receiving conservative (and cost-effective) treatment that will help preserve structures in the oral health system. Preventive dentistry focuses on early detection and treatments that thwart the onset of common conditions so that patients can enjoy optimal oral health for a lifetime. Following is helpful information on how you can protect your wellbeing with preventive dentistry and a proactive approach to your oral health.

Checkups and Cleanings

Missing routine checkups and cleanings makes detecting changes in your oral health or symptoms much harder. When your dentist cleans your teeth and examines your mouth, any concerns will be discussed. Waiting too long between visits means that you might overlook important symptoms of common conditions. Additionally, missing appointments also means that conditions like tooth decay and gum disease have time to progress into more problematic issues that require treatments that are more extensive.

Preventive Treatments

Preventive treatments help strengthen teeth and stimulate gum tissue. One common treatment is the application of a fluoride gel or varnish. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that replenishes tooth enamel. Tooth enamel is the protective outer layer of teeth and when enamel is strong, cavity causing bacteria cannot penetrate it. Dental cleanings also have preventive benefits. A cleaning removes plaque and tartar that accumulate along the gums and in between teeth. These substances are major contributors to periodontal (gum) disease. Regular cleanings help keep gums clean and healthy.

What to Do If You Experience Changes in Your Oral Health

If you experience sensations or symptoms of potential oral health problems, you should call your dental provider as soon as possible. For instance, you might notice that your gums bleed when you floss or brush. Notifying your provider of changes in your health will help determine their cause and present possible solutions.

For additional information, contact our team at Charlottesville Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center.