5 Reasons to Get a Dental Checkup Every Six Months

Taking care of your teeth is about more than just brushing and flossing at home. One habit you need to develop is scheduling a dental checkup every six months. This preventive care keeps your mouth healthy and your smile looking its best. 

Need to schedule an exam and cleaning? Call Lincolnshire Dental at 618-507-5790 today. 

In the meantime, see five important reasons why you should keep up with your bi-annual dental appointments:

  • Stop Cavities and Tooth Decay – Even with the best at-home oral hygiene routine, plaque and tartar build up on your teeth over time. When plaque hardens into tartar, it can only be removed by a dentist or hygienist during a professional cleaning. By scheduling regular exams and cleanings, you’ll help prevent cavities and tooth decay before they have a chance to cause serious damage.
  • Catch Problems Early – Dental exams aren’t just about keeping your teeth clean. They’re also about looking for potential issues that might be developing. Your dentist will thoroughly check for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, oral cancer, and other issues that might not be visible or causing discomfort yet. Catching problems early means less pain, less risk of tooth loss, and less extensive treatments.
  • Protect Your Gums – Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss, and it’s often silent in its early stages. Gingivitis, the mildest form of gum disease, can usually be reversed with proper brushing, flossing, and professional cleaning. If left untreated, it can progress to more serious periodontal disease, which may cause tooth loss and bone damage. Regular exams and cleanings help ensure that your gums stay healthy. We can treat any early signs of gum disease before they worsen.
  • Maintain Fresh Breath – Bad breath can sometimes be a sign of underlying oral health issues, such as gum disease, cavities, or even more serious conditions. Regular dental cleanings remove the plaque and tartar that can cause bad breath. Plus, your dentist can check for any potential causes of persistent bad breath. We will provide recommendations for treatment or lifestyle changes to help you maintain fresh breath between visits.
  • Save Time and Money in the Long Run – It might seem easy to skip your dental appointments, especially if your teeth feel fine. However, doing so can lead to bigger, more expensive dental problems. Problems like cavities, cracked fillings, and gum disease can be prevented or treated with simple, less expensive interventions if caught early. When you invest in regular checkups, you’re ultimately saving time, money, and possibly pain.

Scheduling dental exams and cleanings every six months is one of the best ways to protect your oral health for the long term. Whether it’s preventing cavities, catching early signs of gum disease, or just keeping your smile fresh and bright, these routine visits are a vital part of maintaining a healthy mouth. 

Ready to schedule a dental checkup? Call Lincolnshire Dental at 618-507-5790 to schedule an appointment in Mt. Vernon, IL.