The American Dental Association recommends that you visit your family dentist for checkups twice a year. This is the frequency suggested for patients of all ages, from babies who are within six months of cutting their first tooth to seniors. Here are a few benefits of regular checkups.

Why You Should See Your Family Dentist for Twice-Yearly Checkups

1. Prevent Oral Health Issues

A professional examination is one of the best ways to prevent cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues. Your family dentist can monitor the state of your teeth and gums and keep close watch on any areas that might present problems in the future. They can advise you on steps to take and preventative treatments to consider to help avoid these problems. The more informed a patient is about their oral health, the better equipped they will be to care for the teeth and gums in the most effective ways.

2. Detect Other Health Conditions

Dental conditions are not the only health issues that can be detected during a checkup. Heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer are just a few examples of systemic health problems that often display their earliest warning signs in the mouth. 

A dentist can alert you to these signs to ensure you receive prompt care from a physician and take the necessary steps to better care for your overall health.

3. Save Money

It's much more affordable to implement good preventative care practices now rather than wait until major dental work is needed. This is especially important if you don't have dental insurance or if your existing coverage has a lot of exclusions. And by receiving prompt care for systemic health problems first detected by a dentist, you are minimizing the risk that you'll need complex and costly medical procedures in the future.

Enjoy these benefits when you schedule regular checkups with Drs. Bradford and Catchings Family Dentistry. Since 1991, they have been serving the Shenandoah Valley region of Virginia. Their family dentists offer general and cosmetic dental care and orthodontic services. Call (540) 213-1966 to schedule an exam, or visit their website to learn what to expect from your first appointment.