Cleaning your teeth properly is absolutely essential when it comes to the upkeep of oral hygiene. You may think that brushing your teeth at home is enough to evade serious illness, but unfortunately that isn’t always the case; as a dentist in Sutton will explain. Brushing, flossing and using mouthwash helps to keep your teeth, gums and mouth clean, but you should always book in for an annual deep clean with a dentist in Sutton to rule out any major problems. Dental check-ups aren’t a complicated procedure, but they are essential when it comes to detecting early or advanced signs of tooth decay, gum disease, broken fillings and even cancer. What may seem like an unnecessary expense right now could actually save you a lot of money in the future, which is why scheduling in for your appointment with a dentist in Sutton should always be a priority.
What happens during a check-up?
A dental check-up, better known as a ‘scale and polish’, is performed by a dentist or a hygienist. The procedure usually starts with a scrape, a simple technique that removes tartar and plaque from the teeth. The next step is the polish, which is used to remove stains, smooth away patches of rough texture and generally brighten your smile. How often you will need this treatment will depend on the advice of your dentist and the health of your mouth, teeth and gums.
What illnesses can it prevent?
Gum disease is one of the most common side-effects of poor oral health and can leave gums swollen, sore and infected. But more alarmingly, it can manifest into more serious illnesses if left untreated. If ignored, gum disease can develop into periodontitis which can cause painful gum abscesses, loss of teeth, receding gums, bad breath and bleeding gums amongst many more painful ailments. But worryingly, neglecting your regular dental check-ups could be the difference between spotting and treating early stages of cancer, or never recognising it at all.
Who can have a dental check-up?
The good news is, anyone can book in for a scale and polish, no matter your age or current dental health. From braces to fillings, dentures to veneers, a professional will use the appropriate methods and tools to avoid any damage to minimise pain. If your dentist does happen to detect any minor or serious issues, they will discuss the treatments available to you and take the necessary first steps in combating your ailment.
Regular dental check-ups and following recommended guidelines for oral health at home tends to be a recipe for success. Although not always the case, monitoring the state of your mouth, teeth and gums is essential for your general health and also for your self-esteem. After all, a twice-yearly check-up is a small price to pay for a healthy, fresh and confident smile, wouldn't you agree? Whether you’re scared to see a dentist or are worried about a potential illness you may have, our team at Smile House Dental is here to walk with you, step-by-step, on your journey to a healthier and happier smile.
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