teeth cleaning in Indian Land, SC

Do you have trouble finding enough time to visit the dentist every six months? You're not alone. Thanks to increasingly busy schedules, many people delay or skip these important visits. Doby's Bridge Dentistry, your Indian Land, SC dentist, is here to explain why these visits are so crucial.

Dental exams uncover hidden problems

Dental issues, like most problems, start small. In fact, you may not even be aware that you have a cavity until your teeth are X-rayed. Treating cavities and other issues when they're relatively minor results in less damage to your teeth and lowers the risk that you'll need other dental treatments in the future. Treating issues when they're small is also easier on your wallet, as more complicated procedures cost more than adding a small filling to a tooth.

Regular cleanings reduce your risk of tooth decay and gum disease

Every day, your teeth are coated with a sticky, colorless bacterial film called plaque. If you've ever run your tongue over your teeth and noticed that they felt rough, plaque was the culprit. Plaque combines with the sugars in the foods you eat to create acids that attack your tooth enamel and cause tooth decay. Brushing and flossing is an excellent way to remove plaque, but it can be hard to get rid of plaque in hard-to-reach areas. When you visit the dentist every six months, your teeth will be thoroughly cleaned and lingering areas of plaque will be removed.

Dental hygienists don't just remove plaque, but also remove tartar, a hard deposit that forms if plaque remains on your teeth. When tartar forms at your gum line, it can cause your gums to pull away from your teeth, creating deep pockets that fill with bacteria. If gum disease isn't treated promptly, it can lead to tooth loss.

Regular exams help you protect your general health

In addition to keeping your teeth clean and healthy, you'll also protect your general health when you visit your dentist regularly. During your examination, your Ann Arbor dentist will look for tumors that can be signs of oral cancer and also search for signs of other health problems. For example, if you have Alzheimer's disease, one of the early signs can poor oral hygiene because you can't remember to brush and floss.

Is it time for your next dental exam? Call Doby's Bridge Dentistry, your Indian Land, SC, dentist, at (803) 650-6323 to schedule an appointment. Protect your oral health with regular dental exams!