For parents, fall means the kids go back to school, but that they do as well. From daily drop offs, to meetings with teachers, band banquets, football games and a whole host of other activities, when summer break is over many family’s schedules kick into high gear. With so much busyness it can be all-too-easy to overlook basic preventive care. Unfortunately this can lead to dental health issues for the entire family. So this year, make sure to include dental checkups and cleanings on the family calendar, that way you can keep smiling during this busy season and beyond.
Daily Hygiene Is Important, But It’s Not a Substitute for Dental Cleanings
Brushing and flossing are, of course, important parts of dental care. However, they are rarely sufficient for completely preventing plaque buildup, which hardens into tartar. This film is often visible on the surface of teeth, especially along the gumline, and can cause chronic bad breath as well.
While tartar might initially seem like a cosmetic concern, it is actually responsible for creating a host of oral health issues, including both cavities and gum disease. That’s because tartar can irritate sensitive gum tissue, and its acidity can wear away the enamel of the teeth.
This is why everyone in your family needs to visit the dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. Though many parents think routine visits should be scheduled every six months, many people actually require more frequent visits to effectively avoid dental problems. Some people are genetically predisposed to developing cavities, for instance; others may take medications that negatively impact their oral health. If you have struggled with many dental problems in the past you may need to visit more frequently to keep your teeth and gums in great shape!
ABOUT YOUR WACO, TX, DENTIST:
We look forward to providing families with exceptional care and advanced treatment options. To schedule an appointment with Corbet Locke, DDS, contact our Waco, TX, dental office today by calling 254-776-4888. Our office welcomes patients in and around Waco, TX, including Hewitt, McGregor, Woodway, and the surrounding Central Texas communities.