The beginning of a new year is always exciting time. What goals have you set for 2020? Most people don’t even think to make a New Year’s resolution concerning their oral health, but if you’ve been dreaming of a dazzling smile, keeping your teeth and gums healthy should be one of your top priorities. This year, you should aim to establish good dental habits – and scheduling a teeth cleaning in Portland can be an excellent way to start.
Why Should You Schedule a Dental Visit?
You may have heard that many dentists recommend having two checkups and cleanings a year, but why are these visits so important? Here are just a few benefits of keeping your biannual appointments:
- Protecting Your Teeth: If tooth decay and gum disease are caught early, it could mean the difference between keeping and losing your teeth. You may not notice these issues on your own until it’s too late.
- Remove Tartar: Tartar is hardened plaque that you can’t remove just by brushing and flossing. You’ll need a dentist’s help to get rid of it before it leads to cavities.
- Improved Appearance: At the end of your cleaning, your dentists will polish your smile to leave it looking and feeling fresh.
- Detecting Oral Cancer: Nowadays, dental checkups always include an oral cancer screening. Finding abnormalities in your mouth or throat early could very well save your life.
- X-Rays: Occasionally, your dentist may take an X-ray of your mouth in order to check for bone decay and other unseen issues.
- Using Dental Benefits: If you pay for your own dental insurance, regular checkups and cleanings can help you use your benefits before they’re lost at the end of the year.
What Happens During a Dental Visit?
During a dental checkup in Portland, your dentist will examine your mouth for any changes that might point to oral health issues. In addition to a visual inspection, they could use the technology at their practice to take detailed pictures of the mouth and related structures. They’ll develop a treatment plan for you depending on what they find.
Any food particles, plaque, tartar, and other debris that has accumulated in your mouth will be removed. These professional cleanings are extremely thorough and are a good opportunity to address areas you might have missed while brushing on your own. Your dentist can make suggestions for improving your oral hygiene routine at the end of your appointment.
A visit to the dentist in Portland might not sound like an exciting way to start off the new year, but in the long run it can make all the difference in keeping your smile safe and avoiding complex, costly procedures. Get in touch with your dental practice today!
About the Author
Dr. Megan McInnis is a member of the Oregon Dental Association, and she makes it a point to keep herself up to date with the latest advancements in the field. She’s very passionate about delivering high quality treatment during regular checkups and cleanings. To schedule an appointment at her practice, River Place Dental, visit her website or call (512) 795-2800.