-Oral Cancer Detection It should come as no surprise that early detection of cancer is vital to your ongoing health. When you have regular dental checkups, your dentist will be able to monitor your health and recognize …show more content…
By going to the dentist for regular checkups, they will provide the accountability you may need to stop those bad habits. Chewing ice, biting your nails, smoking cigarettes, clenching or grinding your teeth, and over-brushing your teeth are just a few examples of habits that can negatively affect your oral health. Through regular dental checkups, your dentist will be able to check for any damage that has been caused by these or other habits that may have escaped your notice. Not only will they be able to help fix the damage these habits have caused, they’ll also be able to provide you with helpful information for adjusting your lifestyle in a way that preserves your oral …show more content…
However, your dentist will also be able to check your neck, jaw, and lymph nodes for swelling, lumps, or other harmful abnormalities. If one is detected, your dentist will be able to alert you to it and advise you to seek treatment from whichever medical professional may be appropriate for the situation. While swollen lymph nodes don’t typically hurt or seem out of place, they can be a sign of cancer or other diseases that will require immediate action. Regular dental checkups will ensure your neck and thyroid glands are checked often, helping you avoid potential problems. It only takes your dentist about a minute to check for these abnormalities and that minute can save your