There’s no way around it; no matter who you are, life is hectic. In the hustle and bustle of caring for your family, working or going to school, and taking time to enjoy your life, it’s easy for your biannual trip to the dentist to fall by the wayside.

As inconvenient as it may be, that’s a bad idea not only for your teeth but for your overall health and comfort. So let’s look at five of the many reasons why regular trips to the dentist are not only smart but essential.

Get Feedback on Your Oral Care

It is always a good idea to check your habits and practices with an expert in the field, which applies to dental health as much as any other area. During your visit, your dentist will ask questions about your oral hygiene habits, such as brushing and flossing, as well as your lifestyle.

That way, they can weigh in on what you’re doing well and what you could improve based on the condition of your gums and teeth. This allows you to make changes in your day-to-day life now that can save you a great deal of pain and stress later.

Save Your Teeth

For many, the idea of losing teeth as you age is frightening. However, you have the power to prevent this from happening, and all it takes is two yearly visits to a professional Oakville dentist. Losing teeth or having teeth pulled in old age is painful, and wearing dentures is often a preventable chore.

Check for Signs of Cancer

Visiting the dentist isn’t just about clean teeth. Did you know that dentists are trained to check for various forms of cancer? They look for signs of cancer of the head and neck, and especially the mouth. They do this in part by carefully examining your lymph nodes and other parts of your upper body.

As any doctor will tell you, catching cancer early is key to long-term wellness and survival. So don’t take chances with any type of cancer.

Discuss Cosmetic Concerns

Dentists know that oral health isn’t just about your health; your teeth and smile also have a lot to do with your appearance. By visiting the dentist regularly, you can voice concerns and have a conversation about how your teeth and mouth contribute or detract from looking good in your everyday life. This might include braces or other orthodontic work, teeth whitening, and more.

Prevent Bigger Problems Down the Road

According to the Oral Health Foundation, dentists are trained to recognize the early stages of tooth decay, gum disease, and other issues (including cancer, discussed above). They use advanced diagnostic techniques, such as X-rays, to look for them. When left untreated, these health concerns can cause a great deal of damage that will be both costly and painful.

Prevent yourself from having to go through any of this by visiting your dentist twice a year. Then, your future self will thank you!