Your Dentist in Richardson Discusses The Significance of a Six-Month Check Up

Is it time for your regular cleaning and check up? You may feel like it takes time away from your busy schedule. You may wonder why you have to go to the dentist so often? Is it really necessary? Wouldn’t once a year be sufficient? We’re here to tell you that it is necessary and once per year is not sufficient. Your dentist in Richardson discusses the significance of a six-month check up.

The Oral Systemic Connection

Dentists and physicians alike are now understanding that oral health truly is connected your overall health and well being. This is because periodontal (gum) disease has been linked with other serious health concerns such as high blood pressure, diabetes, stroke, and cardiovascular disease. Research is discovering that bacteria and inflammation in the body that results from periodontal disease contributes to these other conditions and vice versa. This is why it’s so important to achieve and maintain optimum oral health.

Prevention is the Key

Your first and best line of defense against these health issues is prevention. By attending your regular cleaning and check ups every six months, we can help remove the excessive plaque that causes gum disease and screen you for oral health issues such as oral cancer, tooth decay, and periodontal disease. Early detection ensures that you can effectively manage these issues with the least invasive treatment.

What Can I Do At Home?

You can also be proactive about your oral health when you’re not at the dentist. There are a number of things you can do to help maintain your oral health such as:

• Brush twice per day using the proper technique
• Floss at least once per day with proper technique
• Eat more fruits and vegetables – they actually neutralize acids and bacteria in your mouth
• Avoid sugary foods and beverages such as soda, and sports drinks
• Avoid smoking or using tobacco products

All of these things in conjunction with your regular dental appointments will help you maintain excellent oral health and in turn good overall health and well being.

At McDougal and Richards Dentistry, we want to be your partners in maintaining a healthy and beautiful smile for a lifetime. Dr. Tom McDougal and Dr. Chris Richards are your premiere family dentists in Richardson, and we offer comprehensive and high quality dental care in a warm and friendly environment. Give us a call today to schedule your next cleaning and check up appointment because your health is too important to risk.