Regular dental visits are important because they help keep your teeth and gums healthy. During a dental checkup, your dentist, Dr. Robert Korman in Virginia Beach, VA, offers general and preventative dentistry services to check your overall oral health for any trouble areas. A checkup usually consists of a cleaning and oral exam.
Why Dental Checkups Are an Important Part of General Dentistry in Virginia Beach, VA
Dental checkups prevent the following:
- Plaque and tartar buildup- Plaque forms on your teeth each day and attracts decay-causing bacteria. If it is not removed, it can harden into tartar which requires a professional cleaning
- Cavities and tooth decay- If plaque and tartar remain on the teeth, they lead to cavities that will grow into deeper tooth decay. An untreated cavity could lead to tooth loss
- Gum disease- Bacteria can rest below the gum line and cause inflammation or cause your gums to recede
- Oral cancer- At each checkup, your dentist will look for any signs of oral cancer. Catching them early can save your life
How Often Should You Go to The Dentist for a Checkup?
The standard recommendation for patients of all ages is to visit a dentist every six months for a checkup to allow your dentist to catch any problems while they are still small and easier to treat. You may be asked to come in more often if you have a special circumstance like having gum disease or wearing braces. You should also take excellent care of your teeth at home.
Be sure to take care of your teeth and gums between regular dental visits. Plaque is always forming on your teeth, but you can manage it by brushing and flossing regularly.
These are some tips for good oral care at home:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day
- Be sure to use a toothpaste that contains fluoride
- Floss daily
- Use a mouthwash to help control bacteria
If you need to schedule your next checkup, contact Dr. Korman at (757) 412-4060 for general dentistry services in Virginia Beach, VA, today.