
Feb
If you’re like most folks, visiting the dentist isn’t exactly something you look forward to doing. For years, dentists have gotten a bad rep from being portrayed as villainous maniacs who can’t wait to stick a power drill in your mouth.
While we certainly can’t speak for every dentist, rest assured that this is not the case for most. Here at Stone Ridge Family Dentistry, our talented dental team specializes in improving smiles and building long-lasting bonds with every client.
In this fast-paced world, it’s easy to overlook your health. This holds especially true for your teeth, which, most of the time, we barely notice until there’s a problem. Below are some examples of issues you may face because you don’t get regular dental checkups.
Most dental problems start with the build-up of plaque, which can harden and turn into a bacterial cement called tartar. Daily brushing and flossing can remove most plaque. However, there are still areas your brush and floss can reach, leading to devastating oral and general health issues such as these:
When your dental hygiene is not where it needs to be, this can lead to a lot of issues such as gum disease or periodontitis. This infection impacts the soft tissues of your gums, which hold your teeth in place.
Gum disease symptoms include red, swollen, bleeding gums and severe tenderness and pain. If it’s not treated immediately, it can spread into uninfected gum tissue and cause teeth to become loose and potentially fall out or break off.
The build-up of tartar can also produce holes known as cavities in your teeth. This condition is known as tooth decay. The harmful bacteria contained in tartar produce enamel-eating acids that degrade the structure of your teeth over time, leading to systemic structural failure.
Ignoring issues such as tooth decay and gum disease can also allow dangerous bacteria to enter your bloodstream and impact other organs in your body.
Untreated oral infections can cause issues such as respiratory infections and heart disease. This is why your teeth are the gatekeepers to your overall health.
Here are a few ways routine dental checkups can help your oral health and hygiene.
General checkups can help you prevent issues like gum disease and tooth decay by detecting problem areas early and addressing them before they snowball into bigger issues down the road.
You’ll spend far less money on expensive, uncomfortable, and time-consuming treatments for major dental issues.
You can maintain a bright and healthy smile year-round when you visit your dentist at least once every six months. Only two visits a year can make a world of difference for you and your smile!
When you visit Stone Ridge Family Dentistry, our incredible team will make you feel at home while helping you improve the health and appearance of your amazing smile. Don’t delay—call (703) 570-1356 to schedule your personal consultation today. Your journey to a more vibrant, healthier smile begins here.
Dr. Mallory Grossman is a highly skilled and compassionate dentist known for her gentle and comprehensive approach to oral health. She graduated magna cum laude from Binghamton University in 2010 and earned her Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine in 2014. Following a comprehensive General Practice Residency at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Dr. Grossman developed expertise in minimally invasive, esthetic, and functional dentistry. She is an active member of the American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, Northern Virginia Dental Society, and Virginia Dental Association and continually enhances her skills through ongoing education.
Dr. Kelly Lincoln is a trusted dentist who prioritizes patient-centered care for children and adults. She earned her biology degree from Boston College and her doctorate from the University of Maryland’s Baltimore College of Dental Surgery. Dedicated to continuous learning, she has completed advanced courses at the Pankey Institute. She is a member of the ADA, Academy of General Dentistry, Virginia Dental Association, Northern Virginia Dental Society, and Greater Loudoun Study Club. Honored as one of Loudoun County’s “40 Under 40,” she actively participates in community health initiatives like the Virginia Dental Association’s Mission of Mercy project.