Your dentist in Severna Park isn’t just for emergencies. He or she is an integral part of your overall health care strategy. That’s because healthy teeth and gums are essential to overall well-being. Regular cleanings and exams not only keep cavities at bay, they allow your dentist to spot potentially serious health condition in their early, most treatable stages.
One of the Best Healthcare Investments You Can Make
Your teeth and gums act as the first line of defense against dangerous microorganisms that cause everything from tooth decay to deadly respiratory illnesses. Here’s what can happen when you don’t take care of them:
- Cavity-causing bacteria can linger in your mouth, forming plaque and tartar that eat away at your teeth’s protective enamel.
- Serious throat infections can go unnoticed until they cause impaired breathing, persistent coughing, and physical discomfort.
- Chronic conditions can go undiagnosed or even misdiagnosed. For example, some people never learn that they’re suffering from nighttime acid reflux until their dentist notices the telltale trauma to their teeth, gums, and mouth tissues.
For all these reasons and more, it’s important to see your dentist at least twice a year for cleanings and exams. Otherwise you’re playing games with your health.
What to Expect during a Routine Dental Exam
If you’ve never been to the dentist other than for emergency care, then a regular visit will come as a welcome change of pace. Here’s what to expect:
- The dentist will perform a complete visual examination of your mouth, lips, throat, neck, and face. The point of this step is to look for signs of undiagnosed health conditions such as skin or throat cancer.
- The next step is to perform a series of images to see what’s going on beneath the surface of your jaw. Your dentist will look for signs of cavities, teeth chipping or cracking, and other common oral health issues.
- The third step is to receive a complete tooth cleaning. A trained dental professional will remove layers of built-up plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing alone can miss. This is the best way to stop the cavity formation process in its tracks; and it’s only available from a dentist’s office.
- At the end of the visit, the office staff will review your coverage information to make sure it’s up to date. Your dentist may offer suggestions for taking better care of your teeth and gums. Afterwards you can go about your business, knowing that you’ve taken an important step towards enjoying better health and a happier life.
No Dental Insurance? Options Are Available
Some people unfortunately put off getting the dental care they need because of worries about affordability. If that sounds like you, then here are some options worth considering:
- Dental coverage is available on the open marketplace for less than you might think. Ask your insurance representative or go online for more information.
- Many dentists offer convenient financing or pay-as-you-go plans. This is a great way to pay for basic services such as cleanings and exams.
- Hundreds of communities across the country have free or low-cost clinics for those with limited financial means. Check with a local nonprofit organization our social services agency for the opportunities in your area.
Dental care is important for living a healthy, fulfilling life. Make an appointment to see your dentist soon. You’ll look back on the decision with plenty of reason to smile.
About the Author
Dr. Charlie Ward has been practicing dentistry for over 10 years. He earned his DDS degree from the University of Maryland Baltimore College of Dental Surgery. A devoted lifelong learner, he keeps his skills sharp through ongoing training from the Pankey Institute for Advanced Dental Education. You can reach his office online or by calling (410) 729-9090.