Do you follow the recommended schedule for dental visits? Scheduling regular visits is a simple way to maintain good oral health. 
Checkups are among the services Longwood, FL, dentist Dr. Ilya Freyman offers to help you enjoy a healthy smile.
When should I visit the dentist?
Most people should schedule visits every six months. During these checkups, your teeth will be examined and cleaned of plaque and tartar. The staff may also take a few dental X-rays, if needed. Twice-yearly examinations ensure that cavities, gum disease or other dental problems are detected when they're still relatively minor issues. If you do have a cavity or gum disease, your Longwood dentist can schedule an appointment to treat the issue.
Dental cleanings play an important role in the fight against tooth decay and gum disease. Plaque, a sticky substance that contains bacteria, covers your teeth throughout the day. If you happen to enjoy a sugary or carbohydrate-rich treat, strong acids are produced as a result of the interaction between the plaque and sugar. Those acids can weaken your tooth enamel and cause cavities.
If you don't remove plaque, it becomes tartar, a hard, brown deposit that tends to form at the base of teeth. Even if you brush regularly, you may be at risk of developing tartar if it's hard to remove plaque from overlapping teeth or other hard-to-reach places. Cleanings get rid of tartar before it can irritate your gums and cause gum disease.
When are more frequent appointments needed?
You may need to schedule more frequent appointments if:
- You notice a dental problem: Schedule an appointment with the dentist if you experience pain in teeth or gums, large chips or fractures in teeth, loose or knocked out teeth, a visible crack in your tooth, a loose or broken filling, loose crowns or bridges, bleeding gums, or a lump or red or white patch in your mouth.
- You have a health or dental issue: Some conditions and habits may increase your risk of developing dental problems, including diabetes, immune system disorders, smoking or gum disease. If you have any of these problems, you may benefit from more frequent visits.
Is it time for your next checkup? Call Longwood, FL, dentist Dr. Ilya Freyman at (407) 260-0224 to schedule a visit.