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What Really Happens If You Skip a Dental Cleaning?

September 30, 2020

Filed under: Uncategorized — drsongfm @ 6:32 pm
Dentist conducting a dental cleaning

Have you ever put off a routine dental visit due to a hectic schedule? Or canceled your biannual appointment because something else came up? If you answered “yes” to either of these questions, then you are not alone. In fact, according to the American Dental Association, 48% of U.S. adults do not visit the dentist as often as they should. Whether it is due to a dental phobia, the current pandemic, or lack of symptoms, it is important to remember that skipping a dental cleaning can negatively impact your oral health. Read on for three reasons you should not postpone your biannual visit to the dentist.

#1. Neglected Tooth Decay

Did you know that 90% of Americans have had at least one cavity by their 21st birthday? Unfortunately, the numbers continue to skyrocket from there since adults between the ages of 20 and 64 have an average of three decayed or missing teeth. In fact, tooth decay is the most prevalent chronic disease (next to the common cold) according to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial research. These statistics are especially troubling because they are largely preventable with routine visits to the dentist. At your biannual appointment, your dental team can identify small issues before they turn into large dental concerns, thereby preventing dental emergencies and the development of tooth decay. So, to keep your teeth in tip-top shape, always attend your bi-yearly appointments!

#2. Development of Periodontal Disease

All too often, oral care regimens are centered around teeth. However, your gums are equally as important! If they are neglected, bacteria can collect around the gum line and lead to gum disease. From there, the microbes can destroy the tissue and break down the bone of your jaw. Plus, advanced stages of periodontal disease have been associated with health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s! Fortunately, your dental team can help prevent this from occurring by removing bacteria and calculus from the hard-to-reach areas of your mouth during your professional cleaning.

#3. Skipped Oral Cancer Screenings

Roughly 53,000 new cases of oral cancer are expected to be diagnosed in 2020 alone, making it the sixth most common form of cancer. At your semi-annual dental checkups, your dentist dedicates a portion of their exam to looking for red or white lesions, which could be a warning sign of oral cancer. If they are unable to conduct their screening, the condition can fly under the radar, especially since the red flags are often painless and hard to see. To increase the likelihood of early detection, visit your dentist every six months!

Between a hectic schedule and navigating life in a pandemic, it can be easy to justify postponing your routine visit. However, before you do, remember the above important functions of your biannual dental checkups and cleanings!

About the Author

Dr. Rodger Song graduated from one of the top schools in the nation, Baylor College of Dentistry. Today, he has earned a Fellowship from the Academy of General Dentistry, which is a testament to his dedication to continuing education and outstanding dental care. Dr. Song is also an active member of multiple reputable organizations, including the American Dental Association, the American Orthodontic Society, and the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. If you are overdue for your semi-annual appointment, don’t hesitate to visit his website or give him a call at 972-906-9797.

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