Top 5 Reasons to Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Your Dentist Regularly
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Rachel_Spohn]Rachel Spohn

For most people, going to the dentist does not even begin to approach their list of fun things to do. And yet for all the bad rap dentists get, they play an important role in maintaining your health. Dentists are about more than finding cavities; they can also save your life. Like most health advice, going to the dentist is all about prevention. This article gives you the top reasons why you should get regular dental cleanings and checkups.

Reason #1: To prevent oral cancer. This reason alone should give you cause to make an appearance at your dentist's office. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, oral cancer is the sixth most common malignancy reported worldwide with high mortality rates among patients. Not only that, but in the United States alone, someone dies from oral cancer every hour. The good news: oral cancer is highly curable when diagnosed early. So when you go in for your regular dental checkup and cleaning, your dentist and hygienist also screen you for oral cancer.

Reason #2: To prevent gum disease. Gum disease causes tooth loss, and you could have gum, or periodontal, disease and not even know it. When diagnosed in its early stages, also known as gingivitis, gum disease is treatable and reversible. If not treated early on, the advanced stages begin to set in. Also, studies have shown that gum disease can affect your heart. Patients with certain types of gum disease had a higher chance of developing atherosclerosis in the neck, which leads to a stroke. Regular dental checkups and cleanings, paired with flossing daily and brushing twice a day is crucial to preventing gum disease.

Reason #3: To keep your teeth. Avoiding dental visits is a surefire way to lose your teeth to gum disease. No teeth means you will be subject to wearing false teeth that are uncomfortable and embarrassing. Maintain good oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly if you plan on keeping your natural teeth for as long as you should need them.

Reason #4: To prevent dental emergencies. Don't wait until you have a toothache to visit your dentist. Many problems are easily avoided by regular visits to the dentist. He or she can detect potential problems with your teeth and gums early on. Cavities, broken fillings, and gum disease are easily treatable in the beginning. The longer these problems go untreated, root canals, teeth removal, and gum surgery could become the only available treatment options.

Reason #5: To maintain good overall health. Heart disease, strokes, pancreatic cancer, and more serious health issues have all been linked to gum disease. Like has been said before, visiting your dentist for regular checkups can help you avoid gum disease, and thus promotes better overall health.

Corey J. Walther D.D.S., Ltd ( http://cjwaltherdds.com) is a Chicago family dentist that provides everything from simple and thorough cleanings to teeth whitening to oral surgery. Rachel Spohn is a freelance writer.

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Top-5-Reasons-to-Visit-Your-Dentist-Regularly&id=1954329] Top 5 Reasons to Visit Your Dentist Regularly