Many people do not like to go to the dentist. Some people have had bad experiences, some think it may be painful and others fear the dentist will give them bad news regarding the health of their teeth. However, encouraging your family and yourself to go, has a wide range of health benefits that may surprise you and help you to lead a longer, fuller life.

Prevent Gum Disease

One of the biggest reasons and benefit that drives people to go regularly is prevention of gum disease. While brushing your teeth regularly can remove plaque, only regularly planned trips to the dentist can remove calculus. Calculus is plaque that has hardened above and below the gum line where your brush can not reach.

What can be done about gum disease when I go to the dentist?

You have to go to regularly to have calculus removed. Calculus causes gum disease otherwise known as periodontal disease. If you do not go, periodontal disease will destroy gum and bone, the two things that hold your teeth in place. Regular appointments can help you enjoy your teeth, chew your food and flash your brilliant smile for a long time.

Check For Oral Cancer

Another health benefit that encourages people to go that may surprise you is early cancer detection. When you're there, your dentist will perform oral cancer checks by looking at oral tissues. Signs of early cancer include open sores that do not heal, unusual bleeding or white patches on your gums.

These signs can be detected during your visit. If there is malignant tissue, or tissue that looks like it could be cancerous, your dentist can order a biopsy to see if it actually is oral cancer. It is especially critical to be tested for oral cancer early and often if you are smoker. Make sure you get an oral cancer screening every six months because early detection can save your life.

Check For Tooth Decay

At the dentist, tooth decay problems you may be unaware of will be identified and restored. The dental hygienist can help you make adjustments to your oral care routine before any of the problems become painful, both physically painful or financially painful. Your dentist will only be able to see this if you make your appointments regular.

Every year, your dentist will take x-rays of your teeth. This will enable him or her to see any upcoming issues, before you even feel anything. If you experience a toothache, scheduling a visit can lead to early detection of a cavity.

Restoring a cavity is a relative simple procedure if you go early enough. However, if your cavity is not filled soon enough, and is left untreated, a root canal, gum surgery or even removal of the tooth could be required. This could lead to high bills and more subsequent trips for dental treatment. If left totally untreated, a dental infection can spread through the jaw and into the blood stream, causing other health problems.

Maintain Total Health

Studies have shown that good oral care and making planed visits can aid in maintaining good overall health. Gum disease, which can be prevented by regular appointments has been linked to a list of other health issues, including: diabetes strokes pancreatic cancer and heart disease If you have one of these chronic diseases.

Many of these diseases will slow your immune system making it harder to fight off gum disease. Numerous studies have shown that people who have poor management over their diabetes are more likely to develop gum disease more often and more severely than people who manage their diabetes.

Learn Good Oral Hygiene Habits

Part of a good oral health routine should include: brushing your teeth twice a day flossing regularly and using mouthwash with fluoride This should be in addition to regular dental visits.

Planning trips to go to the dentist, along with a carefully planned and executed oral care routine will enhance your health and your quality of life for years to come. Make your appointments now.