Many of us have been guilty of neglecting our oral health this year. While the Corona Virus continues to dominate headlines and our lives, some people have delayed their scheduled visit to the dentist. Although this may not seem like a huge issue now (especially if you are hiding your smile behind a mask!), this could have a huge impact later in life.
It’s a common misconception that you should postpone your visit to a dentist due to the pandemic. Dentists are well equipped in this area and have adapted quickly. Hygiene is always a top priority for dentists, and they should be able to put you at ease. If you are looking for a dentist, Zayra Dental is one of the leading dental practices in Leeds. Visit our Contact Us page to book your consultation today.
The Impact of Neglecting Your Smile
Many of us associate the dental appointment with a great-looking smile and good oral hygiene. While this is true, your visit to the dentist has a much broader impact on your health in general.
Skipping your dental appointment can lead to:
- Cavities- When the combination of bacteria and sugar builds up, it begins wearing away the tooth’s enamel, leading to a cavity. Cavities start out very small, so only a dentist will be able to spot it early on. Left untreated, they are guaranteed to progress eventually leading to loss of tooth and other complications. Early treatment can save you a lot of pain and money.
- Gum Disease- Gum disease is inflammation of the gums caused by plaque build-up. Your dentist can remove plaque and recommend ways to prevent this at home, such as flossing. This will also prevent bad breath. Gum disease is entirely treatable and preventable through regular check-ups.
- Stains – Having your teeth professionally cleaned during your appointment can remove common stains such as coffee and red wine, before they worsen.
- Oral Cancer- During your dental check-up, your dentist will examine your mouth for early signs of oral cancer. Although this is extremely rare, treatment options are much better if detected early on.
- Tooth Loss- If left untreated, infection or gum disease can both result in tooth loss.
- Tartar Build Up- Your dentist can remove plaque before it builds up and becomes tartar. Tartar can only be removed by your dentist.
Think of your teeth like owning a car. If you don’t keep up with necessary maintenance, it could suddenly break down, even if there are no previous signs of an issue. Unfortunately, there are no early dash board warnings here. When it does break down, you are a left with a much worse problem and more considerable expense. Don’t wait until an issue occurs before taking preventative measures.
If you have skipped your check-up, don’t panic. It’s never too late to take control of your oral health. The sooner you book your appointment, the better.
Benefits of a Great-Looking Smile
In today’s image-obsessed society, a great-looking smile is highly desirable. Straight, white teeth can have all kinds of unexpected benefits. A study carried out by Invisalign found that those with a better than average smile had an increased chance of getting a job offer and being offered a higher salary. Your smile is one of the first features people notice about you, and one of the most remembered. Individuals with a great smile are perceived as being happy, friendly, trustworthy and attractive.
When your teeth look great, you are likely to smile more often. Those who smile longer and more frequently have been found to have an increased life expectancy. When you smile, your heart rate lowers, endorphins are released, and your stress levels are reduced.
How to achieve a healthy smile?
Achieving a healthy smile doesn’t need to be time consuming or expensive. Here are our top tips for great-looking teeth:
- Find a high-quality local dentist. Choosing the right dentist for you is crucial. An expensive dentist may not necessarily mean the best. You might be paying for their marketing costs rather than quality. Your dentist should be approachable and professional. The dentist and their team should make you feel welcomed and at ease. If you feel uncomfortable, you are more likely to put off those essential check-ups. When you can avail high quality treatments at affordable prices you don’t have to worry about NHS waiting lists either. If you are looking for a good dentist in the Leeds area, we would be happy to help here at Zayra Dental. You can get in touch with via our Contact Us page.
- Keep up-to-date with check-ups- You should be visiting your dentist at least every six months. Diagnosing and treating any dental issues early on, can save you many problems, pain and expenses down the line.
- Brush your teeth twice daily- This is an advice most of us aware of, but you would be surprised to know how many people do not brush their teeth correctly or effectively! Don’t brush too aggressively, as this can damage tooth enamel. Use gentle, circular motions.
- Regularly change your toothbrush. You should buy a new toothbrush (or new toothbrush head if you use electrical) at least every three months.
- Regular flossing should accompany brushing. Even the best brushing technique fails to remove the bacteria and debris completely and leads to plaques. Flossing is the best way to prevent this.
Consider a professional whitening treatment. At Zayra Dental we can whiten your teeth in as little as 15 minutes and without breaking your budget! Our highly qualified practitioners can remove common stains caused by coffee, red wine or smoking.
To conclude, when you invest in your smile, you invest in yourself. Great looking teeth can improve your health, social life, self-esteem and your prospects. Contact us today at Zayra Dental to book your consultation or for further information.