What are the benefits of dental check-ups?
There are many benefits, including:
- Healthier & happier mouth
- Discover issues before they worsen
- Oral cancer screening
- Identify bite issues
- Professional clean
- Teaches you good oral health
Why is oral hygiene so important?
Did you know that adults over 35 lose more teeth to gum diseases (periodontal disease) than from cavities?
Three out of four adults are impacted by gum disease at some point in their life, but there is something we can do about it! The best way to prevent cavities and periodontal disease is by brushing your teeth and flossing daily.
Periodontal disease and decay are both caused by bacterial plaque. Plaque constantly forms on your teeth. By thorough daily brushing and flossing you can remove these germs and help prevent periodontal disease.
How does plaque affect the teeth?
Plaque is caused by secretions made by microscopic bacteria on your teeth. If you don’t uphold a strict oral hygiene regime plaque can gather between your teeth in crevices, and also create hard tartar which is practically impossible to remove without the assistance of a dentist such as Dr. Curtis Couch or a hygienist.
This tartar can then erode the enamel of your teeth, making the innermost part of your teeth susceptible to bacteria which can damage the dentine and pulp, creating a very painful dental cavity. This can later require root canal therapy which involves removing damaged dental pulp and resealing your teeth with a dental crown.
Have you heard about Periodontal (gum) Disease?
Periodontal disease, also commonly known as gum disease is the infection of gum tissue, caused by poor oral health.
The bacteria found in plaque produces toxins and poisons that irritate the gum tissues, which can cause them to turn red, swell and bleed easily. If this irritation is prolonged, the gums separate from the teeth, causing periodontal pockets (spaces) to form.
As periodontal disease progresses, the supporting gum tissue and bone that holds teeth in place begins to deteriorate.
When this is left untreated, it can lead to loss of teeth which will require replacements using dental implants, bridges or full arch restorations, depending on how significant your tooth loss is.
How to prevent Gum Disease?
The best way to prevent gum disease is effective daily brushing twice, flossing regularly, rinsing your mouth out with water frequently.
It’s also important to have regular professional examinations and cleanings performed by Dr. Curtis Couch and his team at the Thousand Oaks dental practice in California.
However unfortunately, even with the most diligent home dental care, people still can develop gum disease. Once this disease starts, professional intervention is necessary to prevent its progress.
What causes gum disease?
- Poor dental health
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Stress
- Clenching and grinding teeth
- Medication
- Poor nutrition
Contact Curtis Couch for a check-up and clean
When was your last dental appointment? Was it longer than six months ago? If so, you should book in for a dental check-up and clean with our experienced and professional team at Curtis Couch. Hurry up and get on-top of your dental health by contacting us online or calling on 805-497-8077 .
Call Us Today
If you have any questions or would like to book an appointment with us, please give us a call at the office. We look forward to seeing you soon.