Did you know that the American Dental Association recommends that you see your dentist for a routine checkup and cleaning every six months? Regular visits allow them to monitor your oral health so they can catch and address any areas of concern before they can progress into more serious issues.
Despite this, many patients hesitate to schedule their appointments because they’re “waiting for the right time.” Continue reading to learn 3 reasons to consider booking your next exam for early in the new year!
Consideration #1: Dental Insurance Resets
Dental insurance policies are set up to encourage preventative dental care to prevent a need for more costly and complex procedures. For instance, they often include 100% coverage for an allotted number of basic checkups, cleanings, and X-rays annually.
Now that December has arrived, there’s a good chance you’ve already used your complimentary perks this year. Thankfully, most plans reset at the start of the year, so if you schedule your next exam for this coming January, you’ll be able to take advantage of your newly updated benefits.
Consideration #2: Preserves Oral Health
Most people assume that if they aren’t having immediate issues it means they have good dental health, but unfortunately, it’s possible to develop problems and not know it. Even if you brush and floss diligently at home, it’s possible to develop cavities where you can’t see them by yourself, like between teeth or behind your molars. Furthermore, the earliest form of gum disease, gingivitis, is notoriously difficult to catch because it tends to exhibit symptoms once it’s already progressed.
Fortunately, your dentist knows what to look for and can address any areas of concern, like thinning enamel or bleeding gums, before they worsen. That way you can have peace of mind that you’re starting the year with a happy, healthy grin!
Consideration #3: Protects General Well-Being
Your oral health is associated with your general well-being in several ways. For example, gum disease can enter your bloodstream and travel to other areas, contributing to other bodily concerns like heart problems and diabetes.
Visiting your dentist allows them to help you maintain your dental condition to avoid exacerbating other medical issues. Not only that, but they also include an oral cancer screening as a standard part of routine visits to help you avoid this potentially life-threatening condition.
As you can see, there are several good reasons to schedule your next dental checkup during the early months of 2025!
About the Practice
At Mauck & Ricci, DDS, you benefit from two dentists who share 20+ years of combined experience helping people build their healthiest, most beautiful smiles. Dr. Matt Mauck and Dr. Andrew Ricci are active members of the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry, among other professional organizations, so you know your grin is in good hands. They also welcome people of all ages so you and your family receive the same top-tier care. If you need a checkup, you can request an appointment on the website or call (303) 745-1400.