5 Reasons to Visit the Dentist Every 6 Months

5 Reasons to Visit the Dentist Every 6 Months

Few people like sitting in the dentist’s chair, but making regular appointments with your dentist guarantees your teeth stay in tip-top condition. The Irish Dental Association recommends you visit your dentist at least once a year, but making six-monthly appointments prevents a whole host of oral-related problems from developing, such as tooth decay and gum disease. Here are five reasons why you should visit your dentist every six months.

1. Prevent Tooth Decay
Dentists can quickly diagnose tooth decay — the destruction of the outer layer of your teeth from sugary foods. This condition can worsen every six months or so as plaque builds up and slowly ruins your teeth. Visiting your dentist twice a year prevents the decay from damaging your teeth, so you can improve your oral health and reverse the effects of plaque buildup. If left untreated, however, this condition often causes pain and dental cavities and can even irritate the gums.

2. Prevent Plaque
Plaque is a sticky deposit that clings to your teeth and gum line and is full of harmful bacteria. When plaque builds up on your teeth, it can result in tartar, which discolours the teeth. There are multiple causes of plaque, including irregular brushing. Research shows that one in four adults doesn’t brush their teeth twice a day, while one in 10 people regularly forget to clean their teeth. Visiting your dentist twice a year, however, prevents plaque build up and leaves your teeth in a cleaner, healthier condition.

3. Stop Gum Disease
Your dentist can spot the first signs of gum disease, long before it becomes a serious problem. This way, you can tackle the issue before it gets worse and better protect your teeth in the future. If left untreated, however, gum disease causes your gums to become red and swollen, and can even make it painful to consume your favourite foods and drinks. A good dentist will suggest ways you can prevent gum disease, including regular cleanings from a dental hygienist, flossing, swishing with mouthwash and proper brushing.

4. Save Money in the Future
Identifying oral-related problems early could save you more money in the long run. Regular care and maintenance of your teeth reduces the chances of you developing gum disease and tooth decay, and you are less likely to require costly dental work, such as a tooth extraction. Visiting your dentist every six months means you can avoid expensive treatments and you won’t be hit with an unexpected bill in the future.

5. Improve Your Smile
Dazzling pearly whites are no longer the domain of movie stars. Visiting your dentist regularly helps you improve your own smile, with a number of treatments available that will whiten, brighten and clean your teeth. A study from the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry says that 96 percent of adults think that an “attractive smile” makes someone more attractive, while 74 percent believe an “unattractive smile” limits a person’s chances for career success.

Visiting your dentist’s office every six months could save you cash, improve your smile, prevent plaque and tooth decay, and stop gum disease. Yes, there are other places you would rather be, but making regular appointments to see your dentist could transform your oral hygiene and bring you many benefits.