Dental checkups are often put off until a toothache or gum discomfort hits, but prevention is the real key to maintaining a healthy mouth.
As explained to Enlace Latino NC Dentist Milena Baintrub, go to dentist Regular checkups not only help detect cavities early, but also identify gum problems, tooth wear, and even signs of general diseases that can manifest in the oral cavity. The question is: how often should you schedule a checkup?
"Generally speaking, a dental checkup every six months is suggested," Baintrub said. However, he clarified that a specific treatment plan should be developed for each patient, taking into account the specifics of each case.
"To determine the frequency of checkups, several factors must be evaluated. For example, whether or not the patient has had previous caries lesions, the frequency of sugar intake, diet, hygiene habits, environmental factors such as water conditions, fluoridation, bacterial count, etc. Based on this analysis, the frequency of dental checkups is determined.
What exactly does a complete dental checkup include?
Baintrub explained that during a dental checkup, a patient's medical history should be updated to determine the overall condition of the oral cavity.
“Then a review of the entire oral cavity should be performed, evaluating not only the dental tissues but also the mucous membranes, gums, tongue, cheek, lips to determine if there are any stomatological lesions. And many times it is complemented with a radiographic examinationIf checkups are scheduled every six months, it's not always necessary to repeat the X-rays, but an annual panoramic X-ray is recommended. And in certain cases, it can be supplemented with other types of studies, such as periapical X-rays or CT scans, if necessary.
Related: Free Dental Care in Wilmington
What signs or symptoms should prompt someone to move their appointment forward, without waiting for the next scheduled checkup?
There are some warning signs that patients should keep in mind when attending checkups earlier than planned.
Baintrub mentions, among others, toothache, gingival inflammation or bleeding gums, oral cavity lesions that do not heal after two weeks, fistulas, or infections. Also mentioned are swelling, either in or around the oral cavity, and symptoms such as dry mouth or burning.
“In short, pain, infection, inflammation, or an injury that doesn't go away after two weeks,” the dentist summarizes.
"To this I would add pain in the temporomandibular joint or dislocations, which clinically present as an inability to close the mouth. Or if the person suffered a trauma."
The specialist also emphasized the importance of a dental checkup prior to certain medical treatments, such as before receiving osteoporosis medication, transplants, or chemotherapy.
Related: Guide to Free or Low-Cost Dental Clinics in North Carolina
What preventive measures between visits can help maintain oral health?
Baintrub doesn't hesitate to recommend preventative measures: brushing well to maintain hygiene.
"The most effective preventive measure you can take at home is brushing your teeth at least twice a day, and using interdental hygiene products, such as floss or interdental picks, if indicated."
He also mentions the use of fluoride toothpaste in adult patients.
What are the risks of spacing out controls too far?
Failure to perform dental checkups in a timely manner can pose risks to our oral health.
"If you don't visit the dentist as often as recommended, some diseases can be detected in more advanced stages. However, when the lesion is in its early stages, treatments are much less invasive," Baintrub concluded.
While one of the reasons why people postpone their dental check-ups is the cost, In North Carolina there are numerous dental clinics that provide free care.
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