Regular Dental Visits Prevent Problems

Periodontal disease is one of the most serious dental problems people face. Good oral hygiene habits—brushing after every meal and flossing at least once a day—are essential to maintaining good oral health, but should not replace seeing your dentist.

Periodontal disease begins with gingivitis, a gum inflammation that produces bleeding and soreness, and is usually triggered by bacteria in that sticky film called plaque that accumulates on teeth. People often don’t take the presence of  a “little pink in the sink” seriously enough. Without regular dental visits, gingivitis can blossom into periodontal disease that causes destruction of the tissues that surround and support teeth and the bone and fibers that hold teeth in place.

Not only does periodontal disease rob your oral health, it may well make you sick in other ways. Dental problems have been linked to heart problems, including stroke, and to lowered immune system function.

Preventive dentistry is especially important for children. Children with good oral health chew more easily and get more nourishment from their food. They also learn to speak more quickly and clearly, have better general health and experience fewer dental problems down the line.