Importance of Regular Dental Check Ups

“Regular dental visits are important because they help to keep your teeth & gums healthy”

What is a dental check – up?

There are 2 parts to a regular dental visit / check – up:

1. Check up or examination

2. Cleaning & Prophylaxis

• During the dental check – up, your dental professional will check your overall oral health for any trouble areas.
• X-rays might be taken to detect cavities between your teeth.
• Your dentist will also check for any problems with fillings, braces, bridges, dentures, crowns or other restorations.
• During the cleaning or oral prophylaxis, your dental professional will remove any plaque and tartar buildup and may polish your teeth.  
• You should have a regular dental visit at least every 6 months or as recommended by your dental professional.

Five reasons to visit the dentist every 6 months:

1. Prevent tooth decay

Dentists can quickly diagnose tooth decay – the destruction of the outer layer of your teeth from sugary foods. This condition can worsen every six months or so as plaque builds up and slowly ruins your teeth. 

2. Prevent plaque

Plaque is a sticky deposit that clings to your teeth and gum line & is full of harmful bacteria. Visiting your dentist twice a year, however, prevents plaque buildup and leaves your teeth in a cleaner, healthier condition.

3. Stop gum disease

Your dentist can spot the first signs of gum disease, long before it becomes a serious problem. If left untreated, however, gum disease causes your gums to become red & swollen & can even make it painful to consume your favorite foods & drinks

4. Save money in the future

Identifying oral related problems early could save you more money in the long run. Regular care & maintenance of your teeth reduces the chances of you developing gum disease & tooth decay, & you are less likely to require costly dental work. 

5. Improve your smile

Visiting your dentist regularly helps you improve your own smile with a number of treatments available that will whiten brighten & clean your teeth.

The importance of Dental Check up during Pregnancy:

 > It is important for you to take good care of your teeth & gums while pregnant.

 > Pregnancy causes hormonal changes that increase the risk of developing gum disease which, in turn, can affect the health of your developing baby.

 > It is important for you to take good care of your teeth & gums while pregnant.      

 > With proper hygiene at home and professional help from dentist, your teeth should remain healthy throughout your pregnancy.    

Below are few tips to help you maintain good oral health before, during & after pregnancy. 

1. Before you get pregnant

> Try to make a dental appointment before getting pregnant. That way, your teeth can be professionally cleaned, gum tissue can be carefully examined, & any oral health problems can be treated in advance of your pregnancy.

2. Dental care while pregnant 

> Before you have your dental appointment, check with your obstetrician to see if she has any special precautions/instructions for you.

> Non-urgent dental procedures can be performed after first trimester.

> If dental X-Rays are unavoidable, dentist can take precautions to ensure your baby’s safety.

> Tell your dentist the names & dosages of all drugs you are taking- including medications & prenatal vitamins prescribed by your doctor- as well as any specific medical advice your doctor has given you. Your dentist may need to alter your dental treatment plan based on this information.

> Don’t skip your dental appointment simply because you are pregnant. Now more than any other time, regular periodontal (gum) exams are very important.

> Follow good oral hygiene practices to prevent &/or reduce oral health problems.

> Eating right for your teeth & baby.

1. Avoid sugary snacks. Sweet cravings are common during pregnancy.

2. Eat a healthy, balanced diet. Your baby’s first teeth begin to develop about three months into pregnancy. Healthy diets containing dairy products, cheese & yogurt are a good source of these essential minerals & are good for baby’s developing teeth, gums & bones.

3. After you’ve had your baby

> If you experienced any gum problems during your pregnancy, see your dentist soon after delivery to have your entire mouth examined & periodontal health evaluated. 

> Hormones associated with pregnancy can make some women suspect to gum problems like:

1. Gingivitis.

2. Undiagnosed Periodontal Diseases.

3. Pregnancy Epulis or Pregnancy Gingivitis.