Regular visits to the dentist are important for more than just keeping your teeth and gums healthy. According to the Mayo Clinic, there is even a link between oral health and overall health. Keep reading for four ways that visiting the dentist can help you to stay healthy.

1. It Helps Identify Underlying Health Issues

Did you know that your mouth can be a window into your overall health? That's because many health conditions first manifest themselves in the mouth. For example, mouth sores can be a sign of a viral infection such as herpes.

By visiting the dentist regularly, you give your dentist a chance to spot any potential health concerns early on. Then, you can work with your dentist and doctor to develop a treatment plan.

2. It Helps Prevent Cavities

Cavities are one of the most common dental problems, but they're also one of the easiest to prevent. That's because cavities are caused by bacteria that form plaque on your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film that forms when you eat or drink sugary or acidic foods.

Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly is a great way to prevent cavities. Even if you do that, it's still important to visit the dentist for professional cleanings. This is because plaque can harden into tartar, which is much harder to remove at home. During a professional cleaning, your dentist will use special tools to remove tartar from your teeth. This will help to prevent cavities and keep you healthy.

3. It Aids in the Early Detection of Cancer

Another reason to visit the dentist regularly is that they can help to screen for mouth cancer. This is especially important if you use tobacco products or drink alcohol excessively as these are both risk factors for mouth cancer.

During a routine dental visit, your dentist will examine your mouth for any signs of cancer. If they spot anything suspicious, they'll refer you to a doctor for further testing.

4. It Can Help Prevent Gum Disease From Progressing

Gum disease occurs when plaque and tartar build on your teeth and gums, causing them to become inflamed. If left untreated, gum disease can progress to more serious conditions like periodontitis, which can lead to tooth loss. It's also been linked to other serious health conditions like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Regular visits to the dentist can help to prevent gum disease from developing or progressing.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, only 65.5% of American adults visited a dentist in 2019. Unfortunately, many people still don't see the importance of regular dental visits. But as you can see, there are many ways visiting the dentist can benefit your overall health. If you haven't been to the dentist in a while, make an appointment with Wilson Family Dental today. We'll help you to keep your smile healthy and bright.