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Regular dental checkups are often pushed to the bottom of our to-do lists. These routine appointments are one of the most important investments you can make in your long-term health, yet according to the ABS’s 2023 Patient Experience survey, only about half of the adults in Australia visited a dentist in the past 12 months.
Beyond keeping your smile bright, regular dental visits can detect problems early, save you money, and even help protect your overall wellbeing. Read on to be convinced that regular dental visits are worth your time.
The real value of regular dental visits
While many of us only think about seeing a dentist when something hurts, the true value of dental checkups lies in prevention. Regular visits allow for early detection of dental problems before they become serious or expensive.
Many oral health issues, such as cavities, gum disease and even oral cancer, can develop without noticeable symptoms in their initial stages. By the time pain or visible symptoms appear, the condition may have already progressed significantly, requiring more complex treatment.
Early intervention can prevent minor issues from becoming major concerns. For instance, a small cavity identified during a routine checkup can be easily treated with a simple filling, whereas an untreated cavity might eventually require root canal treatment or even extraction. This preventive approach works – according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, there were around 87,400 hospitalisations for dental conditions that potentially could have been prevented with earlier treatment in 2022–231.
Your dental health depends on getting on to things before they get worse, so attending your appointments regularly allows early detection. You’ll also end up saving pain, time and money on treatment of more complex issues, benefiting your quality of life and overall wellbeing.
What happens during a dental checkup?
A comprehensive dental checkup involves much more than a quick look at your teeth and a clean. Understanding what happens during these visits can help you understand why they are so vital.
At the checkup
During a routine checkup, dentists conduct thorough examinations of your teeth, gums, and mouth. They use various diagnostic tools, including X-rays, to identify any underlying issues that may not be visible to the naked eye. This thorough examination is your first line of defence against developing dental problems.
Professional cleaning
Professional cleaning is another crucial component of your regular visit. Even if you brush and floss daily, plaque and tartar build up in hard-to-reach areas. A professional cleaning removes these built-up deposits, helping minimise the risks of cavities and gum disease.
Checking for bigger issues
Perhaps most importantly, your dental checkup can include screening for serious conditions like oral cancer. These screenings can be life-saving when issues are detected early, as early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.
Making the most of your dental checkups
To get the greatest benefit from your regular dental visits, it helps to be prepared and proactive.
Before your appointment
Before your appointment, make note of any changes you've noticed in your oral health, such as sensitivity, pain, or bleeding gums. These observations can help your dentist identify potential issues.
During your appointment
During your visit, don't hesitate to ask questions about your oral health. Understanding proper brushing and flossing techniques, dietary recommendations, and specific care for your unique dental situation can dramatically improve your home care routine between professional visits.
After your appointment
After your checkup, follow through with any recommendations your dentist provides. Whether it's changing your brushing technique, using specific products or returning for treatment of identified issues, following this professional guidance ensures you're getting the full benefit of their expertise. Preventing dental problems is always better than treating them after they've developed.
Looking after your dental health
Regular dental checkups are an investment in your future health and wellbeing. By prioritising these appointments, you'll maintain a beautiful smile while protecting your overall health.
Don't wait until something hurts. Make dental checkups a non-negotiable part of your health routine, just like regular GP visits and regular exercise. Your future self – and your smile – will be very grateful.
