While it may seem inconsequential to push back or skip your appointment with the dentist, it can contribute to a host of oral issues like gum disease, tooth decay, and even oral cancer. Here is why you should not put your health at risk by neglecting dental visits.

Why You Shouldn't Put Off Dental Care 

1. Gum Disease 

Despite a stellar oral care routine, gum disease can still be a threat to patients genetically predisposed or more prone to decay and tartar buildup. Excess plaque left untreated can result in uncomfortable symptoms of gum disease, which include swelling, inflammation, and pain that can progress to the tooth itself or the gum tissue below it. Regular visits to the dentist ensure dental conditions like gingivitus and periodontal disease don't start in the first place. 

2. Tooth Loss 

Progressive decay and gum disease without intervention can lead to total tooth loss. Losing a tooth as an adult is like losing a bone that your body cannot grow back and it has consequences for the rest of your mouth. 

The surrounding teeth lose structural integrity and can begin to fall out of alignment. Without stimulation, the jaw bone can be reabsorbed into the body and result in additional bone loss. To prevent this, you have to replace the tooth with dental implants. What's more, the measures to protect your mouth after tooth loss from poor oral care are far more expensive than routine maintenance. 

3. Cancers and Other Health Issues 

One of the benefits of a dental cleaning is that your dentist knows how to spot identifiers of conditions and diseases like hypertension, diabetes, kidney failure, heart disease, and cancer. According to The Oral Cancer foundation, close to 54,000 Americans will be diagnosed with oral or oropharyngeal cancer this year. Early intervention is crucial for effective treatment when your health is in jeopardy. 

The best oral care comes from having a strong relationship with a quality dentist. This is why residents of Naugatuck, CT, trust their smiles to Brian Perelmuter, D.M.D, PC. For ever 20 years, Dr. Perelmuter and his skilled team have provided a wide variety of cosmetic and restorative dentistry services. This dental practice believes routine dental care is a crucial factor in general health care, reaffirming the importance of regular cleanings, fluoride treatments, and checkups. Dr. Perelmuter and his staff are dedicated to making every patient feel comfortable by creating a welcome environment to ease any fears or anxieties. To see a full list of services, visit their website. To schedule an appointment, call (203) 729-3323.