As you’re probably already aware, oral health experts recommend having at least two dental checkups and cleanings performed each year. Since 2024 has just begun, you may feel like there’s no need to schedule these appointments right away – but actually, there are several advantages to having your first dental visit as soon as possible. Below are 4 reasons why you should make time to see the dentist early in the year.
1. You Can Start Taking Advantage of Your Renewed Insurance Benefits
Many dental insurance policies reset once the new year arrives. If you want to take full advantage of your benefits before they’re lost at the end of 2024, it’s best to get started as early as possible. You can typically expect your dental insurance policy to pay most or all of the cost of preventive care, so having a routine checkup and cleaning performed is one of the best ways to make sure that you’re putting your coverage to good use.
2. You Can Have Your Smile Checked for Problems After the Holidays
During the holidays, it can be all too easy to overindulge in treats that are less than ideal for your oral health. It’s therefore best to have your teeth checked by a professional as soon as possible to see if any problems have started to form. If your dentist finds signs of cavities or gum disease, they can treat the issue long before it leads to any lasting consequences for your mouth.
3. You Can Potentially Save Money on Dental Care
Having oral health problems caught as early as possible can make a big difference for your bank account. For example, small cavities can often be treated with fillings, but if they’re left alone for too long, you may end up needing root canal treatment or even a tooth extraction. As such, scheduling a dental checkup now could potentially end up helping you avoid more costly forms of care later in the year.
4. You Can Start Improving Your Oral Hygiene Habits for 2024
Are you thinking of improving the care you give your smile this year? If so, you should definitely see your dentist as soon as you can. They can evaluate your smile and help you identify weak spots in your at-home oral hygiene routine. For example, they can point to the areas that you need to pay closer attention to while brushing. Having an expert give you advice on caring for your grin can put you on the path to maintaining beautiful, healthy teeth for the rest of the year.
About the Author
Dr. Joe Ornelas is originally from Crown Point and is proud to be bringing quality dental care to his hometown. He is a graduate of the Indiana University School of Dentistry, and he’s a member of the Northwest Indiana Dental Society and various other organizations. At his practice, Ornelas Family Dentistry, he provides routine preventive care and various other services. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Ornelas, visit his website or call (219) 663-2892.