Oral health is critical to keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Oral health is also an essential piece of overall health and wellness. Unfortunately, many people do not take care of their teeth and gums the way they should. According to the American College of Prosthodontists, as of 2021, only about 13.5% of Americans floss each day. In addition to brushing and flossing daily, annual dental cleaning visits are an essential part of oral health and wellness. There are some key reasons you should not skip your annual dental cleaning appointments.

Prevent Tooth Decay

No matter how much time and care you put into your home oral care routine, there are hard-to-reach places you may miss. These hard-to-reach areas are targeted during annual dental cleaning appointments. While you're there, the dentist checks for the early signs of tooth decay. As a result, any symptoms that are found during your dental cleaning can be addressed before they become more significant concerns.

Avoid Gum Disease

Unfortunately, gum disease has no symptoms in its early stages. This silent disease makes it challenging for you to detect on your own. However, dentists are trained to spot gum disease even in its early stage. They check the gums for firmness, swelling, and deep gum pockets. If it is early enough, improving oral habits can be enough for gum disease to go away.

Oral Cancer Checks

During your dental cleaning, your dentist checks for any signs of oral cancer. They may look for dead tissue with a special tool. Regular check-ups every six months help to reduce the risk of late-stage oral cancer.

Catch Other Health Concerns

During your dental visit, your dentist checks your neck and head. They are checking for swelling in the jaw and neck, lumps, and other signs of illness. These could be signs of health problems in other places of the body. The dentist can refer you as needed to other professionals.

Dental cleaning and regular dental visits are an essential part of your oral care. Not only are these visits good for your oral health, but also your overall health and wellness. Therefore, it would be best if you were sure to schedule your appointment today.