13 Nov “My Teeth Feel Fine” – Do I Still Need to Go to the Dentist
Posted by: Dental Nurse NVQ Level 3
Medically reviewed by: Dr Peta Leigh BDS (Melb), BSc (Monash) GDC: 78758 | Award-winning General and Whitening Dentist
Don't Wait Until It Hurts! Regular Dental Checkups Are Essential for Maintaining Oral Health
“My Teeth Feel Fine” – Do I Still Need to Go to the Dentist?
by Willow Tree Dental and Orthodontic Centre in Dentistry and Root Canal Therapy
I recently had a conversation with a 20-year-old patient who hadn’t been to the dentist in several years because her teeth felt fine. She didn’t have any pain or sensitivity, so she assumed that everything was okay. However, a routine dental exam revealed that she had decay all the way to the pulp of one of her teeth. This required root canal treatment, even though she had no pain.
This case highlights the importance of regular dental checkups, even if you don’t have any obvious problems with your teeth. Not all dental problems are obvious, and many can go undetected for years if you don’t see a dentist regularly.
Here are some of the reasons why you should still go to the dentist even if your teeth feel fine:
- Periodontal and gum problems are often low-grade and chronic issues initially. These problems can lead to tooth loss if they are not treated.
- Acid erosion can wear away the enamel on your teeth, making them more sensitive to pain and temperature. Acid erosion can also lead to cavities.
- Grinding and tooth wear can cause damage to your teeth and gums. This damage can be irreversible if it is not treated.
- Decay can spread to the pulp of your tooth, which can cause pain and require root canal treatment. Decay can also lead to tooth loss.
Related: Can I afford private dentistry?
In addition to checking for these problems, your dentist will also screen you for oral cancer and other oral diseases. Early detection of oral cancer can save your life.
We recommend that most dentally stable adults are examined at least once per year. If you have any risk factors for dental disease, such as a history of cavities or gum disease, you may be recommended for more frequent checkups.
So, when was your last dental examination? If it’s been more than a year, it’s time to schedule an appointment with your dentist. Regular dental checkups can help you maintain good oral health and avoid serious problems in the future.
Related: 5 Reasons to see a dental hygienist
Book a New Patient Exam at Willow Tree Dental Centre Today!
We are a team of experienced and compassionate dentists who are committed to providing our patients with the highest quality of dental care. We offer a wide range of dental services, including:
- Routine dental checkups and cleanings
- Fillings and crowns
- Root canals
- Extractions
- Implants
- Orthodontics
Contact us today to schedule an appointment. We look forward to helping you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile.
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