Find out why these simple dental checkups are necessary for healthy teeth and gums.
Just as you should visit your family doctor once a year for preventive checkups you should also visit our Erie, PA, family dentist, Dr. 
Rosanne Palermo, for the same preventive care for your teeth and gums. So, why are these routine cleanings and exams so important and just how often do you need to come in for care?
What is involved in a dental visit?
Each six-month checkup consists of a dental exam and a cleaning. During the cleaning, our dental hygienists use special tools to remove plaque and tartar buildup, the culprits behind decay and gum disease.
Along with getting your cleaning, we will also check the health of your gums to look for early warning signs of gum disease, a condition that affects nearly 50 percent of American adults and is the leading cause of tooth loss. While it is known as a “silent killer” because it doesn’t often cause symptoms until it has progressed to a harmful stage, coming in to see your Erie, PA, family dentist every six months can prevent gum disease or to at least detect it early enough that it can be properly treated or even reversed.
We will also examine your oral tissue, tongue, throat, face and neck for any early signs of oral cancer. An oral cancer screening only takes a minute, is completely painless, and it could just end up saving your life.
What are the benefits of regular dental appointments?
Preventive dentistry is so important for protecting your smile against cavities, gum disease, and other issues. Of course, sometimes these problems can still set in but it’s comforting to know that our dentist will be able to catch them early on when they are much easier to treat and are less likely to cause serious complications.
This is also a time for you to ask questions or address any concerns you may have about your own oral health and at-home care during these checkups. Want to know if Invisalign is right for you? Wondering what toothbrush is going to help you get a more thorough clean? These are all questions we can discuss with you so that you can make more informed decisions about your oral health.
Is it time to schedule your next dental cleaning?
We work with your busy schedule to provide you with an appointment that’s ideal for you. Call our Erie office today at (814) 833-3001 to schedule your six-month checkup. Your smile will thank you!
