When your dentist tells you to return twice a year for checkups, it's easy to think of your wallet, roll your eyes, and think to yourself "no way." But your dentist is not making this recommendation because he or she is trying to swindle you out of your hard-earned cash. Visiting your dentist for regular cleanings and checkups is important for a number of reasons.

Problems will be detected and dealt with early

It's a lot easier, less painful, and more affordable to fill a little cavity than it is to perform a root canal on a tooth that's been allowed to decay for years. Most often, the early signs of dental problems like cavities are not that obvious. You may not see a cavity or experience any pain from it until it's pretty huge, so you can't rely on your own senses to detect these problems early on. By visiting your dentist often, you ensure issues are detected when they're minor – so the treatments you need are less extensive. You'll probably save money and avoid a lot of pain in the long run.

Your dentist screens you for oral cancer.

Many people think they don't have to worry about oral cancer if they don't smoke. However, only 80% of people who are diagnosed with oral cancer are tobacco users. This means that one out of five oral cancer patients does not use tobacco. When you visit your dentist for a checkup, he or she looks over your mouth for signs of oral cancer. If it were not for these screenings, you may not notice the symptoms of oral cancer until it is very serious and much harder to treat. Oral cancer can lead to serious facial deformities and death, so it's absolutely essential to detect it as soon as possible.

Your dentist removes tartar from your teeth.

When plaque sits on your teeth, it eventually hardens into a substance known as tartar. This tartar makes your teeth look yellow, and it also contains oral bacteria that increase your risk of decay. It's impossible to remove tartar on your own – your dentist or dental hygienist must use special tools to do so. By visiting your dentist often, you ensure tartar is removed before the buildup becomes too substantial, which keeps your teeth healthier and whiter.

When your dentist advises that you return for regular checkups and cleanings, it's best to heed that advice. Doing so is essential for your ongoing health. Talk to dental professionals like Hoffman & Karl Dental Associates, PLLC for more information.