Maintaining good oral health is essential for overall well-being, and regular dental checkups play a pivotal role in achieving this goal. They enable dentists to identify potential problems like cavities, gum disease, and other issues in their early stages, allowing for prompt intervention and treatment. We spoke to our expert Dr Suman Yadav, Director, Maxillofacial and Dental Department, Numed Hospital, Noida, Director, Healthy Dentzz, and Professor, ITS Dental College, who explained the importance of regular dental checkups.
Importance Of Regular Dental Checkups
Here's why routine dental appointments are crucial in catching dental issues early, as listed by the expert:
Preventive Care
“Regular dental visits allow for preventive care measures, such as professional cleanings and examinations. These routine procedures help remove plaque and calculus buildup, which, if left unchecked, can lead to more serious dental problems like cavities and gum disease”, said Dr Yadav.
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Early Detection of Dental Issues
Many dental problems, such as cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer, may not present noticeable symptoms in their early stages. However, trained dental professionals can identify signs of these conditions during routine examinations. Detecting dental issues early can prevent them from progressing into more severe and costly problems.
According to the Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI), the quality of life for patients is impacted by dental health, with variations observed between those who have regular dental checkups and those who do not. Consequently, individuals who irregularly attend dental appointments experience various issues related to dental conditions. They frequently refrain from consuming food (46.67%) and commonly report sensitivity to cold, hot, or sweet foods (10%).
Cavity Detection
Dr Yadav added, “Dental cavities, also known as caries, can develop slowly over time. Regular checkups allow dentists to detect cavities in their early stages when they are small and easier to treat. Through visual examination and diagnostic tools like X-rays, dentists can identify areas of decay and recommend appropriate treatment, such as fillings, before the cavities worsen.”
Gum Disease Monitoring
“Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a common condition that affects the tissues surrounding the teeth. In its early stage, called gingivitis, symptoms may be mild or even absent”, said Dr Yadav. However, if left untreated, gingivitis can progress to a more severe form of gum disease known as periodontitis, which can lead to tooth loss and other complications. Regular checkups allow dentists to monitor the health of your gums and intervene promptly if signs of gum disease are detected.
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Oral Cancer Screening
Dr Yadav highlighted, “Oral cancer is a serious condition that can become life-threatening if not detected and treated early. As part of routine dental checkups, dentists conduct thorough examinations of the oral cavity, which includes the cheeks, lips, tongue, and throat, to identify any irregularities or indications of oral cancer. Early detection is crucial as it greatly enhances the likelihood of successful treatment and survival.”
Customised Oral Health Education
Regular dental checkups provide patients with valuable opportunities to receive personalised oral health education from their dentist or dental hygienist. During these checkups, patients can learn how to maintain proper brushing and flossing techniques, as well as receive recommendations for oral hygiene products that are tailored to their individual needs. Also, dental professionals can offer advice on diet and lifestyle factors that can have an impact on oral health.
Bottomline
Dr Yadav concluded, “Regular dental checkups are essential for maintaining optimal oral health and catching dental problems early. By scheduling routine appointments with your dentist, you not only protect your teeth and gums but also invest in your overall well-being.”
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your dentist if you are dealing with any oral health issues to get the necessary treatment.]