Dental exams may not be the most exciting appointments on your calendar, but they are crucial for maintaining your oral health. Skipping these routine general dentistry check-ups can have serious consequences that extend far beyond just missing a dental cleaning.
At Wren Street Dental, we know that it can be hard to make time for your dental health. But it’s important to prioritize your smile. If it’s been a while since your last dental exam, schedule an appointment with Dr. Amol Shergill in Mission, BC, today at (604) 820-8702.
In this blog, our team explores what happens when you neglect your dental exams. When you understand the potential consequences, then you can understand how important these check-ups really are.
Undetected Dental Issues Escalate
One of the primary purposes of regular dental exams is to catch dental problems early. When we skip these appointments, minor issues (like cavities or gum disease) can go unnoticed and untreated.
As time passes, these problems can worsen, leading to more extensive and expensive treatments down the road. What could have been a simple filling may turn into a root canal or even tooth extraction.
Increased Risk of Gum Disease
Skipping dental exams allows plaque and tartar to build up on our teeth and along the gumline. This accumulation can lead to gum inflammation (gingivitis) and, if not addressed, progress to more severe periodontal disease.
Almost 50% of adults have some kind of periodontal disease, and it only gets more pervasive with age. If left untreated, the condition can result in tooth mobility and even bone loss.
Oral Cancer Detection
Dental exams often include oral cancer screenings, where dentists look for signs and symptoms of this fast-growing disease. Skipping dental exams can lead to a late-stage diagnosis, which often carries a worse prognosis.
Tooth Decay Spreads
When we skip dental exams, cavities may go unnoticed, allowing them to grow and spread. What might have been a small filling can turn into a larger restoration or, in severe cases, tooth extraction. Regular exams help catch tooth decay when it’s still manageable and less invasive to treat.
Poor Oral Hygiene Habits
Dental appointments provide an opportunity for dentists and hygienists to educate patients about proper oral hygiene practices. When we skip these appointments, we miss out on valuable advice and guidance on maintaining a healthy smile.
Missed Opportunities for Preventive Care
Dental exams are not just about addressing existing issues – they also focus on preventing future problems. Dentists may recommend preventive treatments (like sealants or fluoride applications) to protect our teeth from damage or decay.
Impact on Overall Health
Oral health is closely tied to your overall health. Untreated dental problems can contribute to systemic issues such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. By neglecting dental exams, you not only jeopardize your oral health but also your general well-being.
Brush Up on Dental Exams in Mission, BC
Skipping dental exams can have far-reaching consequences for our oral and overall health. So, if it’s been a while since you’ve visited a dental professional, it may be time to brush up on your preventive care. The team at Wren Street Dental can help! Request a dental exam here, or call our team at (604) 820-8702.
