The American Dental Association recommends seeing your dentist twice a year for routine exams and cleanings, and these appointments are still crucial for those who have lost all their teeth and replaced them with dentures. These visits allow a qualified professional to evaluate your oral health, thoroughly clean your mouth, address problems in their early stages, and recommend better hygiene practices to implement at home. Here’s a quick guide to why you should see your dentist regularly if you wear full dentures.
Early Detection of Oral Health Problems
Early detection of oral health issues can help prevent painful complications that can be quite costly to treat. During your checkup, your dentist will thoroughly evaluate your jawbones and soft tissues for signs of trouble such as gum disease, abscesses, or irritation. If they detect symptoms of oral infection, they’ll be happy to schedule you for a suitable restorative treatment. They’ll also screen your mouth for signs of oral cancer and refer you to an appropriate specialist if necessary.
Evaluation of Your Appliance
During your dental checkup, your dentist will be sure to thoroughly examine your dentures and ask you about how they have been feeling. They’ll meticulously inspect the bases and artificial teeth of your dentures for signs of trouble such as cracks, chips, stains, looseness, and accumulations of plaque and food debris. If the devices aren’t in good shape or are no longer fitting properly, your dentist will be able to have them repaired or replaced as necessary.
Improve Hygiene Habits
No one knows how to practice excellent oral hygiene better than a qualified dental health professional, and your dentist will be happy to provide you with tips for taking excellent care of your mouth and dentures. They may be able to recommend ways to improve your appliance-cleaning regimen so you can maintain a lovely smile and avoid bad breath, and caring for your dentures properly can also help them last longer before needing replacement.
Don’t let poor oral hygiene lead to painful infections and early denture failure. Seeing your dentist regularly will help you keep your smile in great health for life.
About the Author
Dr. Viet “Vince” Tran earned his dental degree at the LECOM School of Dental Medicine and completed a residency at Orlando Veterans Affairs Medical Center. His office in Houston offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as denture services. To learn more about proper denture care or schedule your next appointment, contact his practice online or dial (281) 493-0061.