While still in the early days of 2020, you might be thinking of ways to improve your smile. In the past, you haven’t been as diligent as you should when it comes to caring for your teeth and gums but you’re now ready to make a change. Since the new year brings opportunities for improvements and opportunities, why not seek a regular dental checkup and cleaning from your dentist in Collinsville to put you on the right track? Read on to learn why these visits are so important and what you can do at home to keep your teeth and gums looking their best throughout the year.
Ready, Set, Go: Why Regular Checkups are Important Early in the Year
If you’re wondering why you should rush to your dentist’s office to get a regular checkup and cleaning at the start of the year, here are a few reasons why:
- Your dental benefits reset on January 1, so there’s no better time to take advantage of your insurance’s preventive coverage. Depending on your plan, it is likely your checkup and cleaning visit will cost little to nothing out of pocket, as many insurance companies cover 80-100% of preventive services.
- Your dentist will be able to identify problem areas in your smile and provide treatment options that can improve your oral health. By starting early, you can address your dental issues and enjoy a healthier smile throughout the year.
- When using dental insurance, you must meet a deductible in order to pay less for services and treatment. Should you require any type of restorative dentistry later in the year and your deductible is already met, you’ll be setting yourself up to not only save money but also start 2021 with an even better-looking smile.
Apart from the reasons listed above, seeing your dentist every six months enables him to thoroughly check for abnormalities that can signal tooth decay, gum disease, or even oral cancer. In addition, your dental hygienist will be able to effectively remove plaque and tartar buildup from around the gum line, which, if left untreated, can cause gum pocket formations and infection to set it. This, in turn, can enter the bloodstream and result in serious health-related conditions (i.e. heart attack, stroke, diabetes, respiratory disease, and even neurological disorders).
How to Keep Your Smile Looking Its Best All Year Round
Now that you know why you should maintain your six-month dental visit, you should spend some time thinking about what you can do at home to keep your teeth and gums looking and feeling their best. Some tips your dentist might provide include:
- Brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes
- Using fluoride toothpaste to strengthen tooth enamel and protect against tooth decay
- Floss between your teeth to remove harmful bacteria and food particles that may be trapped
- Rinse with an ADA-approved mouthwash
- Limit how much sugar and starch you consume, as these can cause bacterial growth and ultimately, cavities to form
- Protect your teeth from grinding, clenching, or sports-related injuries by wearing a custom-made mouthguard
As long as you keep the above-mentioned tips in mind and make it a point to schedule a time to see your dentist twice a year, you will have no trouble enjoying a happier, healthier smile in 2020.
About the Author
Dr. Trey Richard completed his undergraduate degree from Longwood University before going on to Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry in Nashville to achieve his doctorate. In 2019, he finished his Fellowship requirements for the F.I.C.O.I at the Triangle Dental Institute Continuum and is currently working toward becoming a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists in June 2020. At Collinsville Dental Associates, he and Dr. Lavinder work together to ensure every patient receives the care they need. By providing a breadth of services, he and his team can address all types of dental problems no matter how simple or complex. Visit our website or call (276) 647-1494 to learn more about how we can help you.