Isaac Lin DDS Santana Park Dental Care
The chemistry of your mouth is as unique as your signature. No two are exactly alike. And so, when it says in popular magazines that "you" need only a dental hygiene appointment twice a year to stay in good dental health, some dentists get very concerned.
Sure, two visits are fine for many patients, even most. But some mouths build up more deposits of calculus than others. Some mouths are naturally decay-prone. Still others and this is critical, may be showing signs of periodontal problems.
Bleeding Gums
Bleeding gums need to be taken seriously. They're signs of an infection that can be a significant risk factor for heart disease. If you had a bleeding sore on your hand that didn't heal you'd get to a doctor and have him check it out, right?
Gingivitis consists of tender gums and a little bacteria-filled pocket between your tooth and gum. It's easily treatable at this point. But if the infected pockets are allowed to enlarge, that inflammation can extend to the bone beneath and erode it.
Your dentist's concern is for your overall oral health and your teeth, not whether you've made the standard number of appointments for this year. He or she wants the chemistry to be right in your mouth… and between the two of you.
Sure, regular cleanings with our office promote good oral hygiene, but did you know it can also prevent a multitude of diseases?
It Prevents Oral Cancer
You may or may not realize that you're screened for oral cancer during your regular dental cleaning. According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, an American dies of oral cancer every hour of every day. It's a sad proposition, especially when you consider that it is highly curable with early diagnosis.
It Wards Off Gum Disease
Gum disease, or an infection in the gum tissues and bone that keep your teeth in place, is one of the leading causes of adult tooth loss. It can be treated and reversed if diagnosed early. Unfortunately, not receiving treatment will lead to a more serious and advanced state of gum disease.
Regular cleanings, checkups, and daily brushing and flossing are key to fight against these conditions.
It's About More Than Your Mouth
Sure, not getting regular check-ups may make you less kissable, but did you know that studies have linked heart attacks and strokes to gum disease associated with poor oral hygiene? A trip to your dentist every 6 months could reduce your risk of serious health problems!