If you haven't had your teeth and gums examined lately, now is a good time to resolve that good oral health is part of a healthful lifestyle and start the New Year off by scheduling a dental visit, says the American Dental Association.
"Dental examinations are important because they enable the dentist to gather information about your oral health and treat problems in the early stages," says Kimberly Harms, DDS, a general dentist and American Dental Association (ADA) consumer advisor who practices in the Minneapolis area. "A healthy, attractive smile can help you feel and look your best."
The extent of the examination you'll receive, Dr. Harms says, depends on a number of factors, including whether you are a new or returning patient. It also depends on the length of time since your last dental visit and whether you are returning to have a specific dental condition checked.
"Checking for dental decay is an important part of an oral exam," she explains. "Detecting tooth decay early can save time, money and your teeth."
If you wear dentures, it's important for your dentist to check them for proper fit and to look for oral lesions, according to Dr. Harms. Regular dental visits also are essential for detecting periodontal disease at an early stage, when it can often be reversed, before the gums and the supporting bone are irreversibly damaged.
In addition, regular check-ups are important because some diseases or medical conditions have symptoms that can appear in the mouth. Diabetes, nutritional and vitamin deficiencies and hormonal irregularities are examples.
During a dental examination, your dentist can screen for precancerous changes in the oral tissues, helping detect cancer at a stage when it can be more successfully treated.
"Your mouth is a mirror of health for the rest of your body," says Dr. Harms, "That is why regular dental checkups and having your teeth cleaned are important. Now is a good time to plan on starting the New Year with a dental visit. "
If you do not have a dentist, the American Dental Association offers these suggestions:
* Ask family, friends, neighbors or co-workers for recommendations.
* Ask your family physician or local pharmacist.
* If you're moving, your current dentist may be able to make a recommendation.
* Call or write your local or state dental society. Your local and state dental societies also may be listed in the telephone directory under "dentists" or "associations."
