Whether due to fear, lack of time, or just plain not feeling like it, people put off going to the dentist for many reasons. You may ask yourself, “Do I really need to see my dentist every 6 months, even if I’m not experiencing pain?” The answer to that question is a resounding “yes”. Regular dental appointments are crucial to your oral health. Understanding the reasoning behind this fact is easy with help from Dr. Kyle Weedon, your Mineola, TX dentist.

Reasons to Visit Your Dentist 
Seeing your dentist twice a year is important for more than just keeping your teeth clean. Your Mineola dentist uses every appointment to monitor your oral health and catch problems early. Conditions like gum disease are easily treated and reversed in the early stages. If left untreated, periodontal treatment becomes much more complex. Additionally, oral cancer which is caught early could be the difference between the cancer spreading to other parts of the body or not. Your dentist’s examinations and cleanings also help prevent things like bone loss or infections which come from poor oral hygiene. If left untreated, a tooth with a small cavity which would only need a small filling may end up needing root canal therapy later down the line.

What can I expect during a regular dental examination and cleaning? 
A dental hygienist thoroughly cleans and polishes the teeth. An examination of your teeth reveals potential procedures which need to be performed during your appointment. Your Mineola dentist may examine your head and neck to check for abnormalities and signs of temporomandibular joint, or TMJ, disorder. Your gum tissues, bite alignment, and teeth are carefully examined for any irregularities or issues. If necessary, x-rays help your dentist see occurrences and severity of decay and bone loss.

If you have a broken or cracked tooth, pain, an abscess, or bleeding, painful gums, you should see your dentist immediately. Be sure to brush and floss twice daily between examinations and cleanings to ensure your teeth stay healthy and prevent decay-causing plaque and tartar buildup.

For more information on visiting your dentist, please contact Dr. Kyle Weedon, DDS in Mineola, TX. Call (903) 569-5818 to schedule your biannual dental examination and cleaning today!