Dental check-ups can be a hassle, but these appointments are important for dental and general health, and you need to go every six months. Here are the top reasons why going to your general dentist should be a priority every year.

General Dental Hygiene

The most obvious reason to visit your dentist is to make sure there are no plaque and tartar build-ups on your teeth. Your dentist will also check for cavities. Even if you brush and floss twice a day, plaque has a knack for finding small spots to accumulate. If left unattended, this plaque evolves into tartar, which can erode your teeth and cause cavities. Both of these issues need to be addressed by dentists and can cost you a lot of time and money if left untreated.

Gum Disease

Did you know that, according to Harvard Health Publishing, people with gum disease are two to three times more likely to have coronary diseases? That's right! Dentistry is not just about the health of your mouth. What's more, advanced gum disease, or gingivitis, will cause teeth to loosen and fall out. Routine visits to the general dentist will prevent gingivitis from advancing, and your hygienist or dentist can show you methods to stop it from coming back.

Oral Cancer Detection

Oral cancer is a serious and life-threatening disease, and it can be hard for an untrained eye to catch it early. Advanced oral cancer cases can cause teeth to fall out, problems eating and drinking, removal of part of the jaw or mouth, which can lead to speech problems, and death. General dentists are trained at catching oral cancer in its earliest stages when it is most treatable. So the next time you're thinking about skipping your dentist appointment, remember that it can save your life.

While it may not be the most fun event on your calendar, going to the dentist is vital to your health. One visit every six months will prevent you from minor headaches like cavities to life-threatening conditions like oral cancer. Besides, over 70% of Americans went to see their general dentist last year, according to Statista. You don't want to be one of the only people around with bad breath.