Visiting the Dentist

By Ruth on January 28, 2016 in advice
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Visiting the dentist is important throughout your life. Regular visits should begin at a very young age and continue on throughout one’s lifetime. These check-ups with a professional dentist are critical for different reasons as a person ages. With people living longer lives, it’s more important than ever to keep that smile beautiful.

Children

As soon as that first tiny tooth comes into view a parent should schedule an appointment with a reputable dentist. A good Brooklyn NY dentist can be found at several local clinics such as Park Slope Dentistry. The first visit is simply to get a child accustomed to a dental office and discuss with the parent how to care for these brand new little teeth. By age two they should be having regular six-month checkups to spot any cavities, apply sealants, and promote good oral hygiene at home, such as brushing with a fluoride paste and flossing.

Adults

Many people stop going to the dentist once they are adults. As long as there isn’t a painful issue to deal with they will avoid regular visits. These six-month checkups are just as important during middle age as when growing up. Six months is just enough time for unwanted tartar to build up. Once tartar appears, it can only be removed by a dentist. Dentists can also spot problems early on when treatment is more affordable and simpler. In addition, it promotes overall health as there are some medical conditions and diseases that can be determined by symptoms that show up in the mouth.

Older Patients

Aging creates a whole new set of problems when it comes to oral health. Approximately half of all the people aged 55 or older have periodontitis. They are also three times more likely to see the effects of tooth decay than younger patients. Receding gum tissue is a problem for older people as well. When each of these issues are left unattended by a dentist, tooth loss can occur. One out of four of those 65 or older have lost their teeth.

With regular visits to a dentist, one can enjoy a healthy and beautiful smile throughout their life. Children should be taught the habit of regular check-ups so that as adults they continue to care for their teeth. This will lead to teeth that will stay with them for a lifetime.

About the Author

RuthView all posts by Ruth
Ruth Hill is an entertainment journalist, digital media strategist, and creative professional who believes in the power of storytelling to inspire, encourage, and connect people. With years of experience interviewing actors, filmmakers, authors, and other creative professionals, Ruth has developed a passion for discovering the stories behind the people who bring entertainment to life. Her interviews and reviews reflect her appreciation for authentic storytelling, meaningful performances, and the creative individuals working both in front of and behind the camera. Through her digital media business, Media From the Heart, Ruth works with actors, filmmakers, authors, and organizations to help them connect with audiences through social media strategy, video production, YouTube optimization, website development, and digital marketing. A Washington State native, Ruth lives in the Yelm area and is the proud mother of an adult daughter. A former music educator and lifelong creative, she continues to pursue her passion for music, writing, and the arts. At the heart of everything Ruth does is her Christian faith, which inspires her commitment to seeing the best in others,

5 Comments

  1. Amy Winters June 3, 2019 Reply

    Thank you for pointing out that even as an adult, the six-month dental check-ups are still an important part in maintaining healthy teeth. My husband recently started to complain about tooth pain. We realized it had been a while since he has seen a dentist in our area.

  2. Katherine Riley February 24, 2016 Reply

    I have severe dentist phobia due to poor treatment by some dentists, include one who whipped out a Bic lighter to finish a root canal!!! I finally have found a dentist I trust but the damage has been done but my mouth health has never been better.

  3. Sue E February 17, 2016 Reply

    I have gone to the dentist regularly all my life. I took my kids faithfully. Even though the school made them get exams entering certain grades. Wish I am glad about, because I have seen some kids’ teeth really yellow.
    Pregnancies can be hard on the teeth and so can Diabetes. Plus I battled Multiple Myeloma for a long while. I am surprised I still have teeth!! Insurances should automatically cover dental, because it could be a health issue and that means higher insurance rates.

  4. Emily Endrizzi February 5, 2016 Reply

    I always went every 6 months when I was a kid, but it’s been a couple years now. I keep telling myself I should schedule an appointment.

  5. Maryann D. February 2, 2016 Reply

    I feel it is so important to visit the dentist. I wish our insurance would cover more for our visits. Our health depends on keeping our teeth and gums in good shape.

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