As an adult, it’s even more important to keep up with regular dental checkups. Adults have different oral needs than children. The mouth and teeth continue to develop well into adulthood, and some problems can develop slowly over time if left unaddressed. There are many common problems that adults should watch out for when visiting the dentist. Visiting your dentist regularly is essential to keeping your smile healthy and strong as you grow older. If you’re an adult but still have a child who is going to start first grade soon, look no further! Here is a list of the importance of dental visits in adults that will reveal why early childhood care is so crucial!
Check for signs of oral disease | Dental Visit
- Toothache – Adults are less likely to experience toothache than children, but it is still common among adults. Toothache can be a sign of a dental infection, cavities, or gum disease. A dentist can treat and prevent toothache with a timely visit.
- Bleeding Gums – Bleeding gums are a common sign of gum disease in adults but can be easily treated with a visit to the dentist. Not only is untreated gum disease extremely damaging to the teeth, but it also puts you at higher risk for heart disease and stroke.
- Swollen or Blackened Gums – Swollen or blackened gums can be a sign of gum disease or a more severe infection. If your gums appear swollen or discolored, make sure to call your dentist immediately to get treated.
- Changes in Tooth Color or Shape – Tooth color and shape naturally change with time, but those changes should be minimal. If your teeth begin to fade in color, or if they begin to look misshapen, it can be a sign of dehydration, gum disease, or an untreated cavity.
Know your Oral Health risks | Dental Visit
When you visit the dentist, it’s important to be aware of your oral health risks. If you know what problems to look for, you can catch them early and get treatment before they become serious. Some of the most common oral health risks that adults experience include: –
- Gum Disease – Gum disease is one of the most common oral health risks for adults. Gum disease can affect the gums and teeth, causing them to become loose and fall out. Untreated gum disease can also put you at risk for heart disease and stroke.
- Dehydration – Food and beverages that contain caffeine or alcohol can dehydrate your mouth, causing your teeth to weaken and become discolored. Limiting these beverages is essential to preventing oral diseases.
- Cavities – Most adults have had experience with cavities, and they put you at risk again as you age. Cavities are caused by bacteria that build up in your mouth, and it’s important to visit your dentist regularly to get them treated before they spread.
Detect oral diseases with screenings | Dental Visit
Your dental visits also provide an opportunity for your dentist to perform screenings that can detect oral diseases such as: –
- Gum Disease – Your dentist can detect gum disease by performing a gum bleeding test. They will gently rub your gums with a cotton swab to see if it causes any bleeding. If your gums bleed during the test, it can be a sign of gum disease.
- Periodontal Disease – A pocket depth test can detect periodontal disease, which is a serious form of gum disease. Your dentist will measure the depth of your pockets to see how well your gums are holding onto your teeth.
- Tooth Decay – A standard dental exam and cleaning can help detect tooth decay. Your dentist will carefully examine your teeth for any signs of decay.
Have prophylaxis and an exam of the teeth and mouth
Prophylaxis is a dental procedure that helps remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth and gums, preventing tooth decay and gum disease. Most dentists consider adults to be due for prophylaxis after about two years. An exam of the teeth and mouth is also an important part of any dental visit. It allows your dentist to carefully examine your teeth and gums, looking for any signs of disease.
Find out if you are at risk for general health issues
When you visit the dentist regularly, they can also help you identify any other general health issues that may be affecting you. Your dentist can carefully examine your gums, teeth, tongue, and breath to see if they find any abnormalities. Common oral diseases that can be detected during a dental visit include: –
- Diabetes – Diabetes can cause your gums to become swollen, red, or bleed. It can also cause your breath to smell. Your dentist can help identify any signs of diabetes in you and help treat it early.
- Liver Disease – Liver disease can cause your gums to become swollen and tender. Your tongue may also appear thick and discolored. Your dentist can help identify any signs of liver disease in you and help treat it early.
Summing up
There are many benefits to scheduling dental visits for yourself, your partner, and your kids. Dental visits allow your dentist to closely examine your teeth, gums, and tongue, helping them to identify any diseases early. Your dentist can also identify any general health issues that may be affecting you, and help treat them early. Having healthy teeth and gums is important for your overall health. It can reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke, improve your self-confidence, and help you smile more. Keep in mind that dental visits are just as important for adults as they are for kids.
