How Detecting Oral Health Problems Early Can Benefit You

A wise person once said, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” While this applies to all sorts of contexts, it’s especially true when it comes to dental care. When you stay on top of your regular dental checkups and cleanings, your dentist is able to detect oral health concerns in their early stages. In the long run, this can save you a great deal of time and money! Keep reading to learn why.

What Exactly Is Preventive Dentistry?

Teeth can’t repair themselves when they’re decayed or damaged, which is why dentists place so much emphasis on preventing cavities, gum disease, and other issues. If they do develop, it’s ideal to catch them early on so that they can be treated with more conservative and affordable methods.

Preventive dentistry includes your regular checkups – which should occur every six months – as well as the steps you take at home, like daily brushing and flossing.

Benefits of Early Detection of Oral Health Problems

By avoiding or minimizing oral health problems, you can look forward to:

• Less money spent on dental treatments – It’s more cost-effective to see your dentist for two checkups a year than it is to wait to schedule an appointment until something starts bothering you. By that point, you might need extensive restorative treatments, such as dental crowns or implants. These services can cost several thousands of dollars, while checkups are significantly cheaper. If you have dental insurance, these visits are likely free!
• Saved time – In most cases, a routine dental checkup shouldn’t take more than an hour or two. However, getting your tooth replaced with a dental implant can span multiple months to a year or longer. Two quick visits a year can save you from needing to take several days out of your schedule later on.
• Less discomfort – These days, dental procedures are more comfortable than ever before thanks to modern technology. However, the best way to avoid discomfort is to not need to undergo any procedures at all. You can reduce the risk that you’ll need treatment for cavities and dental damage by taking good care of your pearly whites.

Be Proactive About Your Smile

When it comes to maintaining a healthy smile, the best offense is a good defense. It’s infinitely easier to prevent oral health problems in the first place than it is to treat them. That’s why it will benefit you to visit your dentist twice a year (or as often as they recommend) and keep up with your daily at-home oral hygiene. In the end, your smile will thank you!

About the Author

Dr. Steven Oshins obtained his dental doctorate from the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine and has since studied under some of the top dentists in the world while completing 100+ hours of continuing education each year. At Oshins of Smiles, he emphasizes a preventive approach to dental care, and he would be happy to help you maintain a healthy smile. You can contact him via his website or by phone at 518-356-5635.