Dental services encompass much more than you might think. Did you know that tooth decay is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases among children and adults? This is because not enough people visit the dentist each year and not enough people know how to properly care for their teeth.
Over 64 million people have some form of gum disease, and millions more have tooth decay. However, tooth decay and gum disease are conditions that are 100% preventable if you brush and floss your teeth everyday and see a dentist regularly.
Dental services, and a solid oral hygiene routine, are essential if you want a healthy smile that lasts a lifetime. See what dental services are the most essential to our patient’s oral health and how we can help fix the cavities and gum issues you may have!
When most people think of a trip to the dentist, they think of a teeth cleaning or possibly a cavity filling. But dentists play a much larger role in your oral health than just these two dental services. Consider this list of responsibilities your dentist has as provided by the American Dental Association:
Surprised by all your dentist is tasked to do? Wait, there is more.
Gum disease, which is an infection of the gum tissues and bone that hold your teeth firmly in place, is the biggest cause of tooth loss in adults. Because of this, it is one of the first things that dentists examine when you visit their office, but teeth and gum health aren’t the only areas dentists are interested when inspecting your mouth.
Dental services focus on more than just the health of your teeth and gums, but also the health of the muscles of the head, neck and jaw, the tongue, salivary glands, the nervous system of the head and neck and other areas.
During a regular, comprehensive exam, Dr. Willey and Dr. Murri assess the health of your teeth and gums but they also look for lumps, swellings, discolorations, ulcerations or anything out of the norm in your mouth.
At times, dentists are required to perform dental services such as: biopsies, diagnostic tests for chronic or infectious diseases, salivary gland function, and screening tests for oral cancer.
Dentists are also able to detect early warning signs in your mouth for other common diseases affecting your body.
Did you know that your oral health can affect your overall health? Scientific research has revealed links between oral health and overall health conditions including your risk for diabetes and heart disease. The World Health Organization has included oral health in its chronic disease prevention efforts “as the risks to health are linked.” Regular dental services help keep your body protected.
While you may be an expert at teeth-brushing, flossing and oral care, your dentist still has more dental services to offer. Oral cancer is one of the deadliest oral diseases you can suffer. According to The Oral Cancer Foundation, someone dies from oral cancer every hour of every day in the U.S. alone.
Regular oral cancer screenings can save your life. Oral cancer can be treated effectively when caught early. Take the time to schedule your regular dental visits for dental services that ensure your mouth and body are protected.
Don’t delay taking advantage of all that a dentist can do to better your oral and physical health. Call 970-267-0993 today to schedule an exam to make sure your mouth is in tip-top shape! Our friendly staff are ready to help you feel at home and restore your beautiful smile.