Many people think that if they brush their teeth regularly and floss every once in a while, they're taking care of their dental health and don't need to visit a dentist. In fact, according to the North American Dental Group, 54% of Americans will only visit the dentist if they experience a dental emergency. However, you shouldn't wait until a problem occurs to schedule a dentist's appointment. Visiting the dentist regularly is essential to maintain good oral health and prevent emergencies before they happen. Here are a few reasons you shouldn't delay a visit to the dentist.

To Receive a Thorough Cleaning

Dentists thoroughly clean your teeth and can reach areas you can't access with a toothbrush. They have dental tools that perform a deeper, more comprehensive cleaning than a toothbrush alone can provide. Dentists remove plaque and tartar and clean in between every tooth. They can apply fluoride if needed, check for cavities, and look for signs of gum disease and other dental issues. Removing the buildup that accumulates between visits to the dentist could save you from having a variety of oral health problems in the future. As a bonus, your mouth will feel clean and fresh after a visit to the dentist!

To Get X-Rays

You can only see the surface of your teeth by looking in your bathroom mirror. This isn't a deep enough look to properly determine if there are any issues with your teeth. Your dentist can take X-Rays to see below the gum line and find any problems that aren't visible to the naked eye. X-Rays give a full picture of your dental health and can detect any issues with the jaw, the roots of your teeth, the spacing of your teeth, and even tumors.

To Save Yourself From Future Issues

Visiting a dentist regularly is just as vital as going to your physician for annual checkups. Taking preventative measures now will allow you to build a rapport with your dentist and establish a history with them. A dentist who knows you well will be able to keep an eye on problem areas, such as a potential soft spot that could become a cavity or a sensitive spot on your teeth. Regular checkups can also help detect oral cancer — a problem that can quickly progress, but if caught early, is typically treatable.

Being proactive in your dental care can save you a lot of money and even your teeth. As a rule of thumb, you should visit the dentist twice a year for a cleaning and checkup. If you're in need of a dentist to help keep your teeth in good health, come to Assabet Dental Group for high-quality dental care.