5 Dental Problems That Dentists Can Spot During Dental Checkups
Most dentists recommend that their patients see them for a checkup at least once every six months. This is because dental problems can appear at any time. The best way to keep your teeth and gums in good shape, aside from good oral hygiene, is to treat dental problems as soon as they occur. Although you can keep an eye on your teeth and gums at home, you might miss important dental issues, especially if you live a busy lifestyle. Here are five important dental issues that your dentist can spot during a dental checkup.
1. Enamel Demineralization
Tooth enamel demineralizes when acids are present in the oral cavity. These acids generally come from oral bacteria or acidic foods and drinks. If you are dehydrated or like to drink soft drinks like cola, then your level of demineralization will be more advanced than usual. Demineralization is the first step on the road to cavities and tooth sensitivity. During a dental checkup, your dentist will be able to spot signs of demineralization and recommend treatment to halt it.
2. Caries (Tooth Decay)
Tooth decay or caries isn't always as easy to spot as you might think. For instance, if you have interproximal tooth decay, which occurs between teeth, you might not notice until you have a toothache. A dentist will be able to spot a hidden cavity with a dental x-ray. They can then treat that cavity with a filling.
3. Gum Recession
Gum recession is a serious problem because it exposes the roots of teeth, which have little protection against tooth decay. A dental checkup can help to spot gum recession early before tooth decay attacks the roots of your teeth. With early treatment, you might be able to avoid gum grafts.
4. Tartar Buildup
Tartar isn't always easy to spot, especially if it occurs behind your teeth or between your teeth. But tartar is a serious problem because tartar eventually leads to gum disease, which can destroy oral tissues like gum and bone. If your dentist spots tartar early, they can then recommend a dental cleaning to remove the tartar before gum disease sets in.
5. Gum Disease
Gum disease occurs because plaque and tartar, which irritate the gum tissue, build up on teeth due to poor oral hygiene practices. Gingivitis, the early form of gum disease, is curable. But if the tartar and plaque progress below your gum line, gingivitis then becomes periodontitis, the more serious form of gum disease. A dental checkup every six months can spot gum disease in its mild form.
By going for a dental checkup at least once every six months, your dentist can spot issues like these early. Early treatment will prevent the need for more costly dental work in the future. Don't skip your dental checkups. Reach out to a dentist to learn more.