Putting off going to the dentist might have serious consequences for your overall health. Here are just a handful of the things that can happen if you don’t go to the dentist hawthorn.
Plaque Buildup
Plaque is a sticky coating that forms on our teeth and is made up of bacteria and carbohydrates. One of the most important reasons to clean our teeth is to prevent plaque from forming. It’s also one of the reasons why you should schedule a deep cleaning session twice a year. Plaque will ultimately turn into tartar if it is not removed from your teeth.
Tartar is a mineral deposit that occurs on the teeth when plaque hardens. Only a dentist can remove it, and it’s very prevalent among those who don’t go to the dentist on a regular basis. Tartar is usually easy to see since it forms around the bottom teeth or gumline. One of the major causes of your teeth appearing filthy is a yellow or brown hue.
Tooth Decay
Plaque eats away at your teeth’s enamel as well. It will cause tooth decay if it is not removed.
If tooth decay is not addressed, it can lead to a costly and time-consuming treatment plan that includes dental crowns, root canals, or even tooth loss! Bad breath is another unpleasant side effect of dental decay. Regular dental visits are essential because they allow the dentist to remove all plaque and bacteria that your regular brushing has missed.
Teeth loss
Tooth deterioration, as previously stated, will eventually result in tooth loss. You will be checked for warning symptoms of tooth loss during your bi-annual dental checkup. X-rays are also commonly used by dentists to identify bone and gum recession. One or more teeth might be lost as a result of several diseases. Your dentist will be able to develop an action plan to address the problem before it worsens if you have warning symptoms of impending tooth loss. If you don’t go to the dentist on a regular basis, you won’t notice bone or gum recession until it’s too late. You’ll lose that tooth at that point, and you’ll have to spend a large amount for the therapy you’ll need as a result.
Bad Breath
You may believe that your foul breath is due to something you both have. Perhaps you simply require a more potent toothpaste or mouthwash. While good dental hygiene routines (brushing and flossing) are important in preventing halitosis, there are many underlying disorders that can contribute. Any tooth decay or illness that is producing foul breath can be assessed by a dentist.
Bad breath (also known as halitosis) might indicate a far more serious health problem. Your dentist will be able to advice you on how to get rid of bad breath at your normal dental appointment. You’ll be appreciated by your family and friends!
Untreated cavities
One of your first dental recollections is probably the satisfaction you felt when you were told you didn’t have any cavities. This is an accomplishment to be proud of! Cavities are more likely when you postpone going to the dentist for lengthy periods of time. Bacteria eating through the protective outer layers of your tooth causes a cavity, which is a permanently damaged region of your tooth. It all starts with a tiny hole. However, if left untreated, it will continue to progress into a much larger cavity which presents a much more challenging treatment.
You will not be able to see a cavity with untrained eyes until it has progressed to a much more serious stage. Although inconvenient and uncomfortable at the time, it is much easier to treat a small cavity in the beginning stages. A more serious cavity may result in a root canal or dental crown. In extreme cases, the tooth may be unable to be salvaged, resulting in the complete loss of a tooth.
Periodontal Disease (Gum Disease)
When left untreated, tooth decay can lead to periodontal disease. While your gums are designed as protection around the base of your teeth, bacteria from plaque can cause your gums to swell. When your gums are not healthy, bacteria is able to settle underneath. This is called gingivitis and is the beginning stage of periodontal disease.
In the early stages, gum disease may present itself as swollen or bleeding gums. This is your bodies natural response to ridding itself of the bacteria that has snuck in. Early stages of gum disease can be treated relatively easily with a thorough cleaning from your dentist.
If left untreated, periodontal disease will progress. The severe stage of gum disease is called periodontitis and is characterized by the loosening of teeth due to severely damaged gums. Once gum disease has progressed to this stage, it is much more complicated and pricey to treat. Severe gum disease typically leads to permanent loss of teeth.
Many researchers and dentists are beginning to observe the link between gum disease and various health concerns including concerns, stroke, heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory disease. The implications for your overall health should cause you to treat your oral health with greater priority.