Woodbridge, VA Dentist - Why Go To The Dentist?

If you need a Woodbridge, VA dentist you have many choices. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, there were 5,285 professionally active dentists in Virginia in 2012. Many of them are practicing in Northern Virginia. Good dental health is important in maintaining overall physical health, but why should you regularly visit a dentist?

Gum Disease

The primary cause of adult tooth loss is gum disease, also called periodontal disease. The human mouth contains many bacteria. Some of it is innocuous. Plaque is a colorless, sticky film that contains harmful bacteria and can cause gum disease. If your gums regularly bleed when you brush or floss it may be an indication of periodontal disease. For most people, it is avoidable. Brushing and flossing every day, coupled with semi annual professional cleanings by a Woodbridge, VA dentist, can help prevent and even reverse early stage gum disease.

Cavities

Cavities are caused by tooth decay. Tooth decay causes deterioration of a tooth. Plaque eats away at the enamel of the tooth creating holes, or cavities. It you experience pain when biting into hard foods, or are sensitive to cold or sweet foods, you may have a cavity. An untreated cavity may cause your tooth to die, requiring an expensive dental procedure. Children are not the only people who get cavities. It is an adult problem as well, due to changes that occur in teeth as they age. The best way to prevent a cavity is to have good oral hygiene, which includes regular brushing, flossing and visits to a Woodbridge, VA dentist.

Oral Cancer Detection

An oral cancer screening is a quick and easy procedure a dentist can complete during your regular dental cleaning and check-up. Some symptoms of oral cancer can include: sores in the mouth that do not heal and bleed easily, a re-alignment in the bite of your teeth and numbness or tenderness in the mouth. The disease can be very serious, but typically curable if found in the early stages.

Maintain Overall Health

Strokes, pancreatic cancer, heart disease and other ailments have all been tied to gum disease. Poor oral hygiene can also lead to bacteria growth, other infections and bad breath, also known as halitosis. Twice a year trips to your Woodbridge, VA dentist can help keep gum disease and other dental issues in check.

Visiting the dentist is not an activity most people enjoy. However, the many health benefits associated with regular dental appointments make it a necessary thing to do. Prevention of gum disease, cavities and oral cancer are some of the most important reasons to see a dentist. Also, who doesn't like clean teeth, a pleasant smile and nice smelling breath?

Brushing and flossing every day, coupled with semiannual professional cleanings by a Woodbridge, VA dentist , can help prevent and even reverse early stage gum disease.